🇳🇦
Source · Namibia
The Namibian
50 articles published on Baobab Pulse
Breaking🇳🇦The Namibian·14 mins 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·14 mins 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·14 mins 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·13 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·13 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·13 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·14 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·15 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·15 hours 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·16 hours 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·16 hours 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·16 hours 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·20 hours 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·21 hours 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·21 hours 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·22 hours 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·22 hours 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·23 hours 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
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Madlanga Commission uncovers alleged corruption network involving Crime Intelligence Deputy Head Feroz Khan
Thousands of chats from Crime Intelligence Deputy Head Feroz Khan's seized electronic devices have revealed an alleged network of corruption within the South African Police Service SAPS, as heard by the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Khan, currently unconscious after an apparent assassination attempt, is accused of involvement in luxury properties, high-end sports cars, and connections to drug cartels, illegal surveillance, and lucrative state tenders. Evidence leader advocate Adila Hassim noted Khan declared R3-million income from his company, Spares Oasis, between 2021 and 2026, exceeding his police salary. The commission's evidence deadline was extended to October 2, 2026, by President Cyril Ramaphosa to allow for Khan's potential testimony. Khan was arrested in May alongside Gauteng Hawks head Major-General Ebrahim Kadwa and businessperson Tariq Downes for allegedly running an illicit precious metals syndicate. The communications also link Khan to figures such as EFF leader Julius Malema, Carnilinx tobacco manufacturer Mohammed "Mo" Sayed, and his partner Adriano Mazzotti. Malema has denied involvement in interactions between Khan and Sayed, which allegedly included obtaining confidential information about a criminal case against Malema related to the VBS Bank scandal. Further allegations involve the manipulation of a police fleet tender and Malema's support for Khan during a disciplinary hearing. Khan's chats with car parts businessman Ismail Vally detail alleged collus
9 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Jannik Sinner defends Wimbledon title against Alexander Zverev
Jannik Sinner successfully defended his Wimbledon title, defeating French Open champion Alexander Zverev in a four-set final. The world number one recovered from losing the first set to secure a 6-7 7/9, 7-6 7/2, 6-3, 6-4 victory. Sinner, who saved the only break point he faced, expressed the special feeling of playing at Wimbledon and not taking it for granted. This win marks his first Grand Slam title since his previous Wimbledon victory and his fifth Slam crown overall. He hit 58 winners against 25 unforced errors in the three-hour and 46-minute match. Sinner's win brings his season record to 44-3, securing his sixth title of the year. Zverev, who had never reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals before, will climb to second in the ATP rankings despite the loss. The match featured tight sets, with Sinner breaking Zverev's serve in the third and fourth sets to clinch the championship.
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Mathieu van der Poel wins Tour de France stage nine in shortened race
Dutch cyclist Mathieu van der Poel secured his third Tour de France stage victory on Sunday, winning the ninth stage which was shortened due to intense heat. The 31-year-old former world champion won a sprint among his three breakaway companions, with Tobias Johannessen finishing second and Tom Pidcock third. Van der Poel described the day as "super hard" but expressed satisfaction in achieving a win before the first rest day. He had previously worked as a lead-out man for his Alpecin Premier Tech team-mate Jasper Philipsen in earlier stages. Reigning champion Tadej Pogacar maintained his overall lead, finishing six seconds behind the winner in the chasing peloton. The stage, originally 154.6km from Malemort to Ussel, was shortened by approximately 30km due to a "red alert" weather warning, with temperatures reaching close to 40C. Van der Poel attacked from an eight-man breakaway with 25km remaining, with only Johannessen, Alex Baudin, and Pidcock able to follow. He then out-sprinted his companions to claim the victory.
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Namibia implements N$1.5 billion fencing strategy to protect FMD-free status
The Namibian government is investing N$1.5 billion in a fencing strategy within the ||Kharas region to maintain its foot-and-mouth disease FMD-free status. Minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform Inge Zaamwani stated that the veterinary fencing project aims to bolster FMD defenses, establish buffer zones, and safeguard beef exports. Namibia currently holds an FMD-free status without vaccination, allowing it to export to markets such as the European Union and China. Recent FMD outbreaks in neighboring countries, including South Africa's Northern Cape province and Botswana, necessitate increased surveillance and preparedness. Strict movement restrictions have been enforced at southern border posts like Noordoewer and Ariamsvlei to protect livestock and the meat export industry. FMD is a highly contagious trans-boundary animal disease that can severely impact livestock, farmers' livelihoods, national food security, and the agricultural sector. The fencing initiatives include establishing disease-control buffer zones, border and quarantine measures, and upgrading existing fences. The ministry rejected an initial N$179 million quotation for fence erection due to pricing and procurement concerns, and a new bid process is underway for two veterinary cordon fences: a 155km stretch along the Orange River and a 30km section between Klein Manasse and Mata-Mata border posts. The minister emphasized that an FMD introduction into Namibia would lead to significant economic
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇦The Namibian·1 day ago
Namibia and China sign nine cooperation agreements during state visit
Namibia and China have signed nine cooperation agreements across various sectors, including economic development, health, education, mining, agriculture, tourism, media, and technology. This development occurred during President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s state visit to China from July 6 to 11, where she met with President Xi Jinping. Key agreements include an economic partnership for shared development, a paired hospital cooperation mechanism, and an agreement on technical vocational education and training. The two nations also signed agreements on green minerals, the 2026 Human Resources Development Cooperation Plan, and cooperation between China Media Group and the Namibia Tourism Board. In agriculture, a protocol was concluded for the export of fresh Namibian table grapes to China. Additionally, a letter was exchanged for a Chinese expert group to conduct a feasibility study for the second phase of the China-aided satellite ground data receiving station in Namibia. Minutes were also endorsed for an on-site inspection and meeting regarding the feasibility study of a proposed Namibian smart city pilot project.
1 min read