US nuclear aircraft carrier transits Namibia's exclusive economic zone
via The Namibian2 min read
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs has confirmed that the USS George HW Bush CVN-77, a United States nuclear-powered super aircraft carrier, is currently transiting offshore of Namibia’s exclusive economic zone. Ministry spokesperson Petrus Shilumbu stated that the vessel has not entered Namibia’s territorial waters and is operating under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea Unclos, which guarantees freedom of navigation. Shilumbu also clarified that a vessel of this nature does not require refuelling at Walvis Bay due to its operational capabilities. The Namibian Ports Authority is aware of the vessel and awaits guidance from the Ministry of Works and Transport. The carrier, deployed in late March, is sailing off Namibia as part of a route around Africa, reportedly to avoid the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, areas that have seen increased activity, including drone and missile attacks on US and commercial shipping.
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.
Mirra Andreeva secured her first Grand Slam title at the French Open, defeating Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. The 19-year-old Russian became the youngest Roland Garros women’s singles champion since Monica Seles in 1992 and the first player born after 2005 to win a Grand Slam. Andreeva expressed her disbelief and gratitude, stating that winning the tournament was a long-held dream. Chwalinska, who had an impressive run from qualifying to the final, acknowledged Andreeva's talent despite her own disappointment. This victory marks a significant milestone in Andreeva's career, adding the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen to her two WTA 1000 titles. Chwalinska's performance will see her ranking rise significantly, assuring her regular participation in major tournaments.
Speaker of the National Assembly Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila urged media institutions to improve the portrayal of women, especially those in leadership roles. Speaking at the 35th anniversary of the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation NBC, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila noted that media coverage often focuses on controversy and personal conduct rather than women's professional achievements. She stated that this imbalance erodes public confidence in women leaders and discourages women from participating in public life. The Speaker emphasized the media's responsibility to assess women based on their work and called for fair, balanced, and contextualized reporting. Kuugongelwa-Amadhila also raised concerns about technology-facilitated violence against women, such as online harassment and disinformation campaigns, which force women to limit their online presence or withdraw from public life. She urged public media to refuse to amplify abusive content and promote responsible digital conduct. Furthermore, she called on media organizations to invest in journalist training to improve reporting on complex national issues, including economics, public finance, and legislative processes, to ensure accurate reporting and strengthen the media's accountability role.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has hailed the new Goreangab Mall in Katutura as a symbol of economic transformation, opportunity, and confidence in Namibia's future. She stated that the development represents progress in reversing the legacy of apartheid-era exclusion. The President noted that Katutura, once a symbol of division, is now a center of resilience, progress, and economic activity, reflecting growing private sector confidence. The mall created approximately 300 jobs during construction and is expected to sustain nearly 400 permanent jobs across its over 40 stores. Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized that the facility will improve access to essential services, reducing transport costs and saving time for residents. She urged local entrepreneurs, youth, and food market operators to source fresh produce locally and called for stronger partnerships between farmers, retailers, and shopping centers through concrete offtake agreements to boost local production, create jobs, and strengthen food security. The President praised the collaboration between Safland Property Group and Oryx Properties for their investment, which demonstrates confidence in the purchasing power and economic potential of Katutura residents, and encouraged the community to protect and support the mall as a shared asset.
Must ReadFormer US President Barack Obama's words about boys facing unseen storms and hidden wounds resonate with the current challenges in Namibia. While efforts have focused on empowering girls, who now outperform boys in academics and tertiary institution attendance, boys are increasingly struggling. Kavango West education director Pontianus Musore reported that boys accounted for 785 dropouts in his region compared to 675 girls. Teachers observe boys having difficulties with discipline, concentration, substance abuse, absenteeism, and motivation, making them more prone to risky behavior and dropping out. Many Namibian youths, particularly in informal settlements and rural areas, face unemployment, poverty, alcohol abuse, violence, and hopelessness. Some argue that current gender-based policies, while addressing historical inequities, might unintentionally overlook disadvantaged boys. Prisons are seeing an increase in young men, and incidents reveal mental and emotional struggles, sometimes leading to gender-based violence and suicide. High cultural expectations, such as "real men don't cry," lead boys to suppress emotions, contributing to depression and anger. There is a call for more therapeutic and rehabilitative institutions. Education is highlighted as a crucial tool for transformation, emphasizing that true strength lies in discipline, humility, perseverance, and wisdom, not violence. The article stresses that society, including parents, schools, churches, and communities, mu