🇳🇦
Southern Africa
Namibia
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 hour ago
Capricorn Group leads NSX performance with 32.45% share price increase
Capricorn Group, which owns Bank Windhoek and Capricorn Asset Management, has demonstrated strong performance on the Namibia Securities Exchange NSX over the past year, with its share price increasing by 32.45%. This growth has significantly benefited shareholders. The company is scheduled to release its results on September 25. The NSX Overall Index saw a 1.06% increase, while the NSX Local Index, tracking local companies, rose by 0.06%. Other companies also experienced positive movements, with Nictus Holdings up 17.24%, Namibia Breweries gaining 11.25%, and Mobile Telecommunications Limited increasing by 10.06%. However, some companies, including Letshego Namibia, Alpha Namibia Industries, and Stimulus Investments, recorded declines. Standard Bank Namibia Holdings saw a smaller gain of 0.37% on the latest trading day and is expected to release its interim financial results on August 12. Beyond the main exchange, Agra and Gondwana also showed positive movements, gaining 13.77% and 12.36% respectively. Globally, South Africa's JSE All Share Index increased by 0.79%, and major US markets like the Dow Jones and S&P 500 ended higher, though Japan's Nikkei Index declined by almost 2%. In Namibia, the annual inflation rate was 4.4% in June 2026, with the repo rate at 6.75% and the prime lending rate at 10.25%. Economic growth was 2% in the first quarter of 2026. Brent crude oil increased by 4.60%, reaching about N$1,303.17 US$79.51 per barrel, and the Namibia dollar weakened sligh
2 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 hour ago
Namibia's local power plants supplied 58% of electricity in May
Namibia generated 58.3% of its electricity requirements in May, with domestic power stations providing more electricity than imports, according to the Namibia Statistics Agency NSA. Local power stations produced 290,390MWh, while imports accounted for 207,496MWh, or 41.7% of the total supply. Overall electricity supplied to the domestic economy increased to 497,886MWh in May. The Electricity Sources Composite Index rose 3.3% month-on-month and was 14.7% higher than a year earlier. The Ruacana Hydro Power Station was the dominant domestic source, generating 253,985MWh, which is 87.5% of total local production. Independent power producers contributed 31,625MWh 10.9%, and the Omburu PV Solar Power Station supplied 4,680MWh 1.6%. Despite increased domestic production, electricity imports also rose by 1.8% from April and 34.2% year-on-year. Zambia's Zesco remained the largest external supplier, providing 43.0% of imports, followed by South Africa's Eskom Aggeneis at 31.3%, and the Zimbabwe Power Company at 19.3%. Electricity demand also strengthened, with the Electricity Sales Composite Index increasing by 1.7% month-on-month and 17.0% year-on-year. Local authority electricity distributors were the largest consumers of domestically generated electricity, accounting for 67.4% of sales, with the mining sector consuming 24.5%.
4 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·2 hours ago
Emvula proposes National Assembly overhaul to address legislative backlogs
Landless People’s Movement member of parliament Eneas Emvula has proposed a significant restructuring of the National Assembly to tackle legislative backlogs and delays in critical bills. His proposal, submitted recently, suggests reorganizing weekly sittings to prioritize questions to the executive, committee reports, bills, and motions. Emvula also advocates for increased use of digital systems, including electronic submission for questions and motions, a live digital order paper, and expanded electronic voting to boost efficiency. He stated that these changes would expedite parliamentary business, reduce the growing backlog, strengthen oversight, and improve the legislature’s effectiveness. Emvula believes the delays are not solely procedural, suggesting potential political motivations within the ruling party. His proposals include dedicating Tuesdays to questions and motions, Wednesdays to ministerial statements, committee reports, bills, and motivated motions, and Thursdays to executive responses. He also suggests a temporary moratorium on new motions, with exceptions for urgent matters, to help clear the existing backlog.
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·7 hours ago
Namibia's Afcon 2028 co-hosting bid contingent on government commitment
The Namibian Football Association's NFA aspirations to co-host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations Afcon are dependent on a formal commitment from the government. NFA secretary general Mabos Vries stated that government support is crucial, particularly for ensuring football stadiums are prepared by 2028. This follows an invitation from the Confederation of African Football CAF for Namibia to join a regional bid. If successful, Namibia would co-host the event with South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe as part of a proposed four-country southern African bid. Vries clarified that this Afcon bid is a distinct, medium- to long-term project and should not be confused with operational funding for football. While Namibia meets several of CAF's infrastructure requirements, the main challenge is securing a CAF-compliant stadium. Vries noted that the government's plans to renovate Independence Stadium indicate ongoing efforts, but a firm commitment is still needed. The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture allocated N$60 million for the Independence Stadium upgrade and N$23.6 million for other sport facility construction and rehabilitation, including a national high-performance center at the University of Namibia. However, Independent Patriots for Change shadow minister of sport Bertha Nghifikwa-Kambonde warned that recent funding cuts for sport bodies could jeopardize Namibia's Afcon bid and harm the country's sporting reputation.
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·8 hours ago
US judge voids Donald Trump's $1.8 billion settlement with IRS, citing improper purpose and potential ethics violations
A US judge has invalidated a legal agreement between former President Donald Trump and federal agencies that granted him immunity from tax audits and established a now-abandoned $1.8 billion "anti-weaponisation" fund. US District Judge Kathleen Williams stated that Trump's lawsuit, filed by him, his two sons, and the Trump Organization in 2026, was for an improper purpose. She described the lawsuit as an action carried out by lawyers with ties to Trump and those claiming to be government targets, rather than a genuine dispute between opposing sides. The judge also referred a Trump lawyer to state authorities to investigate potential ethics rule violations and disciplinary action. The ruling prevents those involved from citing the settlement in future legal proceedings, potentially allowing the IRS to proceed with future audits of Trump's tax claims. Trump's initial lawsuit claimed no action was taken to prevent the leak of his private tax information by a former IRS contractor. The leaked information, prior to the 2020 presidential election, revealed he paid $750 in federal income taxes in 2016 and no taxes in 10 of the previous 15 years. Judge Williams noted that Trump pursued his claims after re-entering the White House and appointing former lawyers to prominent positions in the Department of Justice, who then negotiated the "settlement." One of Trump's attorneys, Alejandro Brito, was referred to the Florida bar for potential disciplinary action, and another lawyer, Daniel
3 min read
Breaking🇳🇦The Namibian·8 hours ago
Sudanese court sentences RSF leader to death for war crimes
A Sudanese court in Port Sudan has sentenced Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces RSF, and 15 other senior RSF members to death in absentia. The conviction is for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide related to atrocities in West Darfur, specifically in el-Geneina. Among those sentenced are Hemedti's brother and deputy, Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, another brother, Al-Qoni Hamdan Dagalo, and the RSF's West Darfur commander, Abdul Rahman Juma Barkallah. The court found them guilty of orchestrating attacks on civilians, widespread destruction, looting, and targeting schools, places of worship, and residential neighborhoods, including the June 2023 killing of state governor Khamis Abbakar. Special Judge Mohamed Al-Amin ordered the confiscation of all RSF assets and instructed authorities to seek Interpol Red Notices for their arrest. The Sudan Founding Alliance, which includes the RSF, called the trial a "sham trial." This marks the first judicial conviction of RSF leadership since the civil war began in April 2023, which has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and displaced 12 million people. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have been accused of human rights abuses and war crimes, with UN investigators and human rights organizations citing ethnically targeted attacks against the Masalit population in Darfur.
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·8 hours ago
President Ramaphosa scrutinizes anti-corruption head Andrea Johnson after Madlanga Commission no-show
President Cyril Ramaphosa is investigating the conduct of Andrea Johnson, head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption Idac, following her failure to appear before the Madlanga Commission. Johnson cited illness, submitting a medical certificate that commission chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga described as "useless." Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed that the President was "looking forward" to her testimony. Johnson was expected to address allegations of collusion and defeating the ends of justice. A whistleblower previously testified that Johnson secretly sent evidence of a complaint against him to Crime Intelligence deputy head General Feroz Khan. This is not the first time Johnson's name has surfaced in relation to police matters; she was questioned in 2025 about her failure to recuse herself from a job interview where her husband, a Crime Intelligence officer, was an applicant. More recently, Idac's attempt to re-arrest General Dumisani Khumalo, head of Crime Intelligence, was halted. Johnson has expressed fear for her life in connection with these cases. Her ongoing involvement in these issues, rather than leading anti-corruption efforts, poses a challenge for National Director of Public Prosecutions Andy Mothibe. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago stated that only the President, who appointed Johnson, can take action against her. Tebogo Khaas of Public Interest SA expressed concern over the repeated non-appearances of k
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·8 hours ago
US immigration policy under Trump favored South African Afrikaners, court case reveals
A recent US court order in Ohio highlighted that of 7,730 refugees admitted to the United States over several months, 7,727 were from South Africa, with the remaining three from Afghanistan. This occurred while immigrants from other countries, legally residing in the US, faced indefinite pauses on their immigration benefit applications, including work authorization. The court case, filed by 25 anonymous plaintiffs from countries like Iran, Canada, Burma, Nigeria, Syria, Tanzania, and Venezuela, challenged policies by US Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of Homeland Security that treated nationality as a negative factor in adjudications. The Ohio court found in favor of the plaintiffs, ordering a halt to the application of these policies. The court order cited US President Donald Trump's stated preference for white immigrants, specifically mentioning his interest in white South Africans and a February 2025 Executive Order offering refuge to "Afrikaners in South Africa who are victims of unjust racial discrimination." This order followed Trump's narrative that white Afrikaner people in South Africa were being discriminated against and violently targeted. The court noted that from October 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026, 6,665 of 6,668 refugees admitted to the US were from South Africa. The court order also referenced Trump's and Vice President JD Vance's public hostility toward immigrants from certain countries. Meanwhile, South Africa is facing its own immi
7 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·21 hours ago
Sankwasa urges incoming ACC director general Eiseb to lead with strength
Incoming Anti-Corruption Commission ACC director general Bryan Eiseb has been advised by urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa to lead the institution "like a wolf and not a donkey." This counsel was given during the National Assembly's debate on Eiseb's nomination, which parliament approved without objection. Eiseb is set to succeed Paulus Noa, who served for nearly 20 years. Sankwasa warned Eiseb that he is inheriting an institution with a damaged reputation due to unresolved corruption cases and public distrust. He urged Eiseb to focus on corruption involving gratification, avoid duplicating police work, and not allow the ACC to be weaponised for political or tribal agendas. Prime minister Elijah Ngurare acknowledged the need for greater financial support for the ACC and stressed parliament's role in holding the commission accountable. Swapo member of parliament Tobie Aupindi and Independent Patriots for Change parliamentarian Armas Amukoto also supported Eiseb's appointment, emphasizing the need for the ACC to regain independence and apply the law impartially.
4 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·21 hours ago
Construction Industries Federation challenges Ohorongo-Cheetah cement merger approval
The Construction Industries Federation of Namibia CIF has called for the withdrawal of the Ohorongo-Cheetah cement merger, citing threats to competition and local contractors. This follows industries, mines and energy minister Modestus Amutse's decision to overturn the Namibia Competition Commission's NaCC ruling that had blocked the transaction. Whale Rock, owner of Cheetah Cement, applied to acquire all shares of Schwenk Namibia, which owns Ohorongo Cement, in February. The CIF argues the approved merger could increase cement prices, jeopardize supply security, harm local contractors and small and medium enterprises SMEs, and negatively impact the broader construction value chain. While the minister's decision, published in Government Gazette notice No 229 of 2026, allows the merger with conditions to prevent job losses, preserve local production, and limit market dominance, CIF chief executive Bärbel Kirchner states these conditions do not address key concerns such as price monitoring, fair market access, and protection against discriminatory pricing. The federation seeks to have the approval withdrawn and implementation suspended for broader stakeholder consultation and a comprehensive assessment. NaCC spokesperson Dina //Gowases confirmed the minister acted within his legal mandate, rejecting claims of conflict. The Otavi Cement Group also opposes the merger, arguing it would significantly increase market concentration and create a dominant market position detrimental to
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·21 hours ago
Over 2,600 nursing graduates fail national assessment in Namibia since last year
More than 2,600 nursing and midwifery graduates in Namibia have failed the national examination required to practice since last year, raising concerns about the quality of nursing training. Statistics presented by the Health Professions Councils of Namibia HPCNA to parliament's standing committee on education show that out of 5,427 graduates evaluated, 2,683 failed, including those who did not attend the examination. For nurse and midwife practitioner graduates, only 600 out of 1,523 passed, resulting in a 39% pass rate. Among staff nurse graduates, 1,984 out of 3,904 passed, a 51% pass rate. Member of parliament Lilian Lutuhezi noted various factors contributing to failure, such as incomplete courses or non-attendance. Committee chairperson Marlyn Mbakera questioned the quality of graduates and asked the HPCNA to provide institutional statistics to identify areas for improvement. The HPCNA reported that the June 2025 evaluation session had the highest number of failures, with staff nurse graduates struggling with ethos and professional practice. The Namibia Nurses Union Nanu secretary general Junias Shilunga expressed concern over the failure rate, advocating for a single national curriculum and fair examination setting methods. He also highlighted issues like high examination fees and travel costs for graduates. The assessment became compulsory in January 2025 to ensure only competent graduates enter the profession. Labour expert Herbert Jauch called for an urgent review of
4 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·22 hours ago
Young flyhalf Moyo to debut for Springboks against Wales
Sharks flyhalf Vusi Moyo, 20, is set to make his debut for South Africa against Wales in a Nations Championship third-round match in Durban this Saturday. Moyo, a member of last year's world under-20 champion team, is one of four new caps named by head coach Rassie Erasmus. The other debutants include winger Jaco Williams, tighthead prop Carlu Sadie from Bordeaux-Begles, and Montpellier lock Ruben van Heerden. Sadie and Van Heerden previously started, and Moyo came off the bench, in a non-cap exhibition match against the Barbarians last month. These four are part of 10 changes to the starting lineup that defeated Scotland 42-28 in Pretoria. Recalled players include centre Damian de Allende, wing Kurt-Lee Arendse, scrum-half Cobus Reinach, No. 8 Jasper Wiese, hooker Malcolm Marx, and loosehead prop Gerhard Steenekamp. Bayonne scrum-half Herschel Jantjies, a 2019 Rugby World Cup winner, is among the eight replacements. Erasmus stated his aim to build depth for the 2027 World Cup, ensuring every player gets a chance to impress this season. South Africa currently leads the southern hemisphere standings in the new competition, level on 10 points with New Zealand but ahead on points difference.
4 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·23 hours ago
Next group of Namibians to be repatriated from South Africa expected this week
The next group of Namibians repatriated from South Africa is expected to arrive on Friday, 17 July. Immigration minister Lucia Iipumbu stated that a Namibian team is currently in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth conducting verification processes for the citizens to be repatriated. The total number will be communicated after verification. This follows the arrival of the first group of 71 repatriated Namibians on Sunday. Iipumbu noted that many returnees faced difficult circumstances in South Africa, including economic hardship, necessitating government-facilitated return. She advised Namibians traveling abroad to comply with immigration laws, remain in contact with diplomatic missions, and pursue opportunities through lawful channels with realistic expectations.
1 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Yamal and Mbappe set for World Cup semi-final clash
Lamine Yamal of Spain and Kylian Mbappe of France are set to face each other in the World Cup semi-final. Yamal, who will turn 19 on the eve of the semi-final, hopes to emulate Mbappe, who won the World Cup as a teenager in 2018. Yamal previously scored against France in the Euro 2024 semi-final, contributing to Spain's 2-1 victory. Despite a hamstring injury scare before the tournament, Yamal has started every game since Spain's second match, though he has only scored once. Spain captain Rodri noted Yamal's anxiety to perform. Mbappe, now 27, is a key player for France and is nearing Lionel Messi's all-time World Cup goal record. He aims for a third consecutive World Cup final appearance, an achievement that would match Brazil's Cafu. Mbappe's dedication to the World Cup has led to questions about his commitment to Real Madrid after he missed part of the season due to injuries. Yamal and Mbappe are considered icons, representing multicultural Europe. While Mbappe has more World Cup experience and is fluent in English, Yamal has an impressive record against Mbappe on the field, with eight wins and two losses in ten games across club and international matches.
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Digital disruption impacts media houses globally, prompting calls for corporate support
Media organizations worldwide are experiencing financial strain due to the digital transformation of news consumption and funding models. Nangula Shejavali, representing the Namibia Media Trust board, stated in Windhoek that the current media model is under significant pressure. She highlighted that digital disruption has altered information consumption, global platforms aggressively compete for advertising revenue, and misinformation spreads rapidly, often overshadowing verified reporting. Shejavali emphasized the increased need for quality journalism, as digitalization allows widespread content publication. She noted that trusted journalism serves as a reliable source for facts and accountability. Consequently, Shejavali called for corporations to support media houses. During the same event, The Namibian editor Johnathan Beukes announced the introduction of 'Good News' pages in the newspaper's daily coverage, aiming to highlight positive community and national initiatives. Shejavali expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, underscoring the importance of sharing positive stories.
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Anirep triples solar power output, boosts revenue, and plans further expansion
Alpha Namibia Industries Renewable Power Limited Anirep significantly expanded its solar generation capacity, nearly tripling electricity output from 23.1GWh to 68.1GWh in the 2026 financial year. This increase followed the commissioning of the 25MWp Moses Mague Garöeb Khan Solar PV Plant and refurbishment at the Otjiwarongo Solar PV Plant, raising installed capacity from 13MWp to 38MWp. Electricity sales rose by 60% to N$62.1 million, and total revenue increased by 36% to N$95.4 million. Gross profit climbed 43% to N$81.4 million, with operating cash flow turning positive at N$15.1 million. Recurring electricity sales, underpinned by long-term power purchase agreements with Namibia Power Corporation and Central North Regional Electricity Distributor until 2051, now account for 65% of total revenue. Despite a N$40.2 million non-cash impairment related to goodwill and power generation assets, the company states this accounting adjustment does not affect plant performance or cash generation. Managing director Iyaloo Ya Nangolo noted that the company's renewable energy platform has reached commercial scale and is now a cash-generative business. Anirep plans further expansion, including a 7.69MWp addition to its Otjiwarongo Solar PV Plant and Namibia’s first utility-scale 2MW/10MWh Battery Energy Storage System, which will increase installed capacity to approximately 46MWp and enhance grid stability.
2 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Namibia's economic growth hinges on innovative business models beyond traditional industries
Namibia's long-term economic growth and job creation depend on innovative business models, not just natural resources. While economic diversification is a national priority, progress in moving beyond traditional value creation methods has been slow. The economy has historically relied on resource-based industries like mining, agriculture, and fishing, which, despite contributing to national income, create vulnerabilities to external shocks and limit opportunities. Business model innovation involves redesigning how organizations create, deliver, and capture value, encompassing rethinking, problem-solving, customer experience, revenue generation, partnerships, technology use, and operational processes. Globally, successful organizations often have innovative business models, exemplified by companies like Amazon, Alibaba, and Airbnb. In Namibia, many entrepreneurs pursue saturated ventures such as bars, construction, cash loans, or logistics, which offer limited differentiation. Opportunities exist in addressing unresolved challenges faced by individuals, businesses, and communities. Entrepreneurs should focus on identifying genuine problems and developing sustainable, value-creating solutions, as financial returns follow when customers value the solutions provided. The main challenge is not funding availability, but a shortage of innovative and differentiated business ideas. Similar business models create little value differentiation, making it hard to attract investors seeking
2 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Cran, MTC, and BoN urge vigilance against ongoing vishing scams in Namibia
Despite mandatory SIM registrations, Namibians are experiencing an increase in 'vishing' scams, prompting regulatory authorities, network providers, and financial institutions to advise vigilance. Vishing, or 'voice phishing', involves scammers using phone calls to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, transferring money, or granting account access, primarily through psychological manipulation. Consumers frequently lose money and personal data, with police reports confirming ongoing incidents, including two cases documented in the past two weeks. The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia Cran, Mobile Telecommunications Limited MTC, and the Bank of Namibia BoN emphasize that while new registration requirements enhance accountability, they do not fully address advanced social engineering tactics. Cran spokesperson Mufaro Nesongano notes that mandatory SIM registration links SIM cards to verified identities but cannot completely eradicate scams, serving mainly to aid law enforcement. MTC stressed that it is not liable when customers voluntarily provide banking PINs, one-time passwords, or identification details to scammers. BoN spokesperson Josefina Oskar states that SIM registration is only one part of a broader fraud prevention framework and does not solely prevent vishing or financial fraud. Oskar calls for coordinated action among financial institutions, mobile network operators, Cran, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to strengthen fraud pre
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
England and Argentina to meet in World Cup semi-final, renewing historic rivalry
England and Argentina are set to face each other in a World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, a match anticipated to be infused with decades of rivalry. Argentina, with Lionel Messi, advanced after defeating Switzerland, while England, led by Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, beat Norway. The South American team aims to become the first to win back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1962, while England seeks to end a 60-year wait for a major trophy. The upcoming game revives memories of their 1986 World Cup quarter-final, where Argentina secured a 2-1 victory with two goals from Diego Maradona, including the controversial "Hand of God" goal. This will be Messi's first match against England. The encounter also takes place against the backdrop of a lingering sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni emphasized that the match is solely a football game, despite the historical context. England's coach Thomas Tuchel expressed dissatisfaction with his team's performance against Norway, despite their 2-1 extra-time victory, highlighting the need for significant improvement. Norway's coach Stale Solbakken and player Erling Haaland commented on a controversial moment where a goal kick appeared to hit an overhead camera cable before England's first goal, and Haaland expressed pride in Norway's performance inspiring a new generation.
5 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
France and Spain set for World Cup semi-final showdown in Texas
France and Spain are scheduled to compete in a World Cup semi-final at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. France, the reigning European champions, have advanced to the last four with a strong attacking force led by captain Kylian Mbappe, who has scored eight goals in six games. His teammates include Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, and Desire Doue. Spain, under Luis de la Fuente, have reached the semi-finals with a possession-based style of play, relying on midfielders like Rodri, Pedri, and Fabian Ruiz to support winger Lamine Yamal. This match is anticipated to be a clash of styles, with Spain aiming to control possession and pressure France's defense, while France's attack will challenge Spain's defense. Spain has a recent record of success against France, including a 5-4 victory in the UEFA Nations League last year and a 2-1 semi-final win at the 2024 European Championship. Lamine Yamal, who turns 19 the day before the match, expressed confidence, stating Spain has "no fear." Spain coach De la Fuente echoed this sentiment, acknowledging France's form but believing in his team's capability. France's coach Didier Deschamps, who will step down after the finals, has led his team to three consecutive World Cup semi-finals, a feat achieved by only two other nations. Mbappe highlighted the team's unity and support for their coach.
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Vusimuzi Matlala rejects 12-year prison sentence in R228 million police tender corruption case
Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala has rejected a 12-year prison sentence and withdrawn from his plea deal with the state, returning the R228 million police tender corruption case to its initial stage. Matlala, along with his companies Medicare24 Tshwane District and Luxo Africa Brand Investments, appeared before magistrate Ignatius du Preez in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes court. Matlala had previously pleaded guilty on June 25 to seven counts of fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to a police health tender awarded to Medicare24 Tshwane District. The original plea agreement, negotiated with the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption Idac, would have resulted in an effective eight-year sentence and required Matlala to testify against senior police officers. However, Magistrate Du Preez rejected this agreement on July 1, deeming it too lenient, and proposed an effective 12-year sentence. Du Preez stated that Matlala's cooperation was driven by self-preservation rather than remorse. With the collapse of the deal, Matlala is entitled to withdraw his guilty plea, and the state will need to prove its case from scratch. The matter has been postponed to September 11, and Matlala remains in custody. The tender, initially advertised at R360 million, was awarded for approximately R228 million in June 2024 and canceled in May 2025 after an internal audit flagged irregularities, with about R50 million already paid out. Matlala also face
4 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Namibia's Unified Gladiators win gold at Special Olympics Unified Soccer World Cup
Namibia's Unified Gladiators secured the gold medal in the Women’s Division 2 category at the Special Olympics Unified Soccer World Cup in Paris. The team triumphed over Egypt in a 5-4 penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw in the final. Their journey included a 5-0 victory against Azerbaijan, a 1-0 loss to Guatemala, and a 1-1 draw with the United States in the group stages, followed by a 5-2 win against France in the knockout stages. This marks Namibia's second gold at the Special Olympics Unified Cup, with their first being in Division 3 at the 2022 event in Detroit. The tournament features teams comprising athletes with intellectual disabilities and unified partners. The Namibia Sport Commission congratulated the team, highlighting their dedication, resilience, and the victory's significance for inclusion and equity in sport.
2 min read
Breaking🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
US and Iran exchange strikes amid escalating tensions over Strait of Hormuz
The US and Iran have engaged in a new series of strikes, escalating tensions between the two nations. On Sunday evening, the US launched attacks on dozens of Iranian military targets, including air-defense systems, coastal radar sites, and missile and drone capabilities. Iranian state media reported one fatality and four injuries in southwestern Iran following these strikes. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC claimed to have struck US military bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. These renewed hostilities cast doubt on the future of an interim US-Iran agreement signed in June, which aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and achieve a permanent end to the conflict. Iran maintains it has closed the key waterway, while the US insists it remains open and has stated its forces are prepared to ensure freedom of navigation for commercial shipping. Oil prices saw a jump on Monday, with Brent crude rising by 4.3% to $79.26 a barrel and US-traded oil also increasing by 4.3% to $74.50. This follows a previous wave of US strikes on 140 Iranian military targets on Saturday evening, to which the IRGC responded with attacks on US bases and allies, including Qatar and the UAE. US President Donald Trump declared the Iranian attacks meant the ceasefire was over, while Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US of violating the deal, though talks are reportedly continuing.
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
South Africa deports over 53,000 foreign nationals in migration campaign
South Africa has deported or repatriated more than 53,000 foreign nationals, primarily from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, over the past five weeks as part of a "migration management" campaign. This initiative follows weeks of anti-immigration protests marked by violence and intimidation, with demonstrators demanding stricter border controls and mass deportations. Protesters accuse migrants of contributing to high unemployment, rising crime rates, and the collapse of public services. The UN has cautioned against using migrants as scapegoats for South Africa’s socioeconomic challenges. Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stated that the process aims for orderly migration while respecting human rights, noting it has also led to the apprehension of individuals wanted for alleged criminal activity. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns but condemned attacks on migrants, urging citizens not to take the law into their own hands. South Africa, as the continent's wealthiest nation, has historically attracted migrants seeking economic opportunities, some of whom enter the country illegally.
2 min read