Day: February 11, 2024

WINDHOEK: The national Futsal team, ‘Brave Fives,’ qualified for their first-ever African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals by defeating Tanzania 6-3 on Friday night in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.

The Namibian Futsal team, who recently joined the international football family, lost their first-leg qualifier 5-2 at home but redeemed themselves with an impressive away performance.

The win saw the Brave Fives qualify for the AFCON finals on their first attempt after the two teams were levelled on an aggregate score of eight goals each. However, a better away goal scored saw Namibia progress to the championships’ finals.

Futsal AFCON is the primary national futsal tournament for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) countries and has been held every four years since its inception in 1996. It serves as a pathway for qualification to the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Futsal World Cup.

This year’s championship will take place in Rabat, Morocco from 08 to 17 April with eight nations set t
o compete for the top honours including Angola, Egypt, Mauritania, Namibia, Ghana, Libya, Zambia and the host, Morocco.

Mauritania and Namibia will be making their first appearance at this continental showpiece.

The top three teams of the tournament will qualify as the CAF representatives for the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup to be held in Uzbekistan from 14 September to 04 October 2024.

In a recent interview with Nampa, Futsal Namibia founder Andrei Tirtirau said Namibia has a good team and qualifying for the Futsal AFCON is a dream come true.

‘Our first appearance in the Futsal tournament is going to put Namibia on the map as a nation with a pool of talented footballers in our league. We are excited about the opportunity to compete with the biggest nations on the continent and qualifying for the tournament still feels unbelievable but it’s a real good accomplishment,’ he said.

Tirtirau added that the team will take a one-week break and thereafter reassemble to focus on preparations for the AFCON tournamen
t, as their ultimate goal is to qualify for the 2024 Futsal World Cup, which he believes is an achievable dream if they prepare well.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

WINDHOEK: Rwanda’s First Lady, Jeannette Kagame on Saturday paid former First Lady Monica Geingos a courtesy call to convey her condolences following the death of the late President Hage Geingob on 04 February.

Kagame is the first presidential spouse to visit Geingos and in a tight emotional hug shared between the two, Geingos said: ‘It’s hard, it’s really hard.’

In 2019, Geingos hosted Kagame for a #BeFreeNationBuilding Public Lecture. They are both members of the Organisation of African First Ladies against HIV/AIDS (OAFLA), currently chaired by Geingos.

Geingob died at the age of 82 and his memorial service is scheduled for 24 February, to be followed by his burial on 25 February 2024.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

WINDHOEK: Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, has said her promotion to Cabinet strengthened the Namibian leadership’s belief in the potential of youth.

She noted that her appointment by President Nangolo Mbumba on Friday strengthened the direction set by the late President Hage Geingob, who had faith in the potential of young people.

‘The trust that His Excellency has bestowed upon me only cements the trajectory that Dr Hage Geingob has begun, that he has trust and belief in the ability of young people in Namibia,’ Theofelus told the media following her swearing in at State House on Friday.

‘I think moving forward, any leader who wants the youth populace to have a seat at the decision-making table has to be intentional about it. And I am grateful that that journey has begun today.’

Her promotion effectively makes her the youngest cabinet minister in Namibia.

‘I think it is only God’s doing. He has done it once, making me the youngest deputy minister, and now he has done
it again, making me the youngest minister in the country.

To ensure the effective delivery of services to the Namibian people, President Mbumba made adjustments to the Cabinet, as per Article 32 (3) (i) (cc) and (dd) of the Namibian Constitution.

Mbumba also appointed John Mutorwa as Deputy Prime Minister. He retained his position as Minister of Works and Transport.

According to the presidency, Mutorwa will assist Prime Minister Saarah Kuugongelwa-Amadhila with disaster risk management, prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.

‘Our duties and responsibilities, whether it is the position of deputy prime minister or minister, are to assist in carrying out our responsibilities for the remainder of the term of office of our departed Dr Hage Geingob. And that is what I will do, and that is what I will continue to do,’ Mutorwa told the media at State House.

The former minister of information and communication technology, Dr. Peya Mushelanga, is now the Minister of International Relations and Cooperati
on.

The presidency said Mushelenga is, among others, entrusted with the primary functions of formulating, promoting, and executing Namibia’s foreign policy and managing bilateral, regional, and international relations.

He replaced former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is now Namibia’s vice president.

Former broadcaster and regional councillor Modestus Amutse said his appointment as deputy minister of information and communication technology came as a surprise.

‘Indeed, I was not notified, but that is the order of the day in politics. You can expect anything to happen within the lifecycle of politics. I sincerely appreciate it because I had not foreseen that I would occupy a portfolio as deputy minister of information and communication technology, But I appreciate the president for trusting me and, of course, the Namibian people with the responsibility of information and communication,’ Amutse said.

Source: The Namibia Press Agenc
y

OSHAKATI: The Namibian Police Force (NamPol) in the Omusati region have opened a case of murder against a 36-year-old mentally challenged man after he reportedly beat to death his 104-year-old mother with a stick.

According to the region’s Crime Investigation Coordinator Deputy Commissioner Moses Simaho on Sunday, the incident happened on Friday around 21h50 at Enkombo village in the Omusati’s Etayi constituency.

The deceased was identified as Cecilia Vilho from Enkombo village and a case of murder read with the provision of domestic violence has been opened against the suspect.

‘It is alleged that the suspect came home and found the deceased and a witness eating dinner, before taking a stick from the fire and beating the deceased,’ he said.

The deceased sustained serious head injuries and was taken to the Oshikuku hospital with a private vehicle, from where she was transferred to the Oshakati State Hospital where she later died, on Saturday.

The suspect is arrested and is in police guard at Oshikuku hos
pital where he is admitted.

Police investigations into the matter continue.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

WINDHOEK: Former Miss Universe Michelle McLean-Bailey has expressed her commitment to carrying forward the legacy of late President Hage Geingob, in continuing to work towards realising the vision he had for Namibia and its people.

The global ambassador, who had a close relationship with the late president since her victory in the Miss Namibia competition, described Geingob as a mentor and close friend who played a pivotal role in shaping her personal and professional growth.

Geingob, she said, provided guidance and support during critical moments of her life. She vowed to continue building on the legacy he left for every Namibian.

In her message of condolences availed here on Sunday, McLean-Bailey said: ‘I am deeply saddened by the passing of President Geingob. His dedication and service to our nation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and the people of Namibia during this difficult time.’

She said the late president’s influence and dedication to the better
ment of the nation will not be forgotten, and she intends to honour his memory by contributing to the continued progress and development of Namibia.

President Geingob’s passing has deeply affected the nation, as he was widely respected for his leadership, vision, and dedication to improving the lives of all Namibians, she said.

‘During his time in office, he made significant strides in various sectors, leaving behind a legacy of progress and inclusivity. His passing represents a great loss for the country, and the outpouring of grief and tributes from across the nation is a testament to the impact he had on the lives of many,’ she said, adding that as the people of Namibia mourn the loss of President Geingob, they are also looking towards the future and the continuation of his work.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

WINDHOEK: President Nangolo Mumba has called on all Namibians to rededicate themselves to work hard and broaden the scope of inclusive economic development where no one is left out.

Mbumba in a statement to commemorate the country’s 34th Constitution Day on Friday, said the national day is taking place against the backdrop of the passing of the Late President Hage Geingob who was the Chairperson of the Constituent Assembly and the Chief Architect of Namibia’s constitution.

This living document, he said has been a guidepost for the smooth transition that Namibians witnessed on the day of his untimely passing on 04 February 2024.

‘We are reminded of the remarkable and inspiring journey we have walked under his able guidance and stewardship, as Chairperson of the Constituent Assembly, Founding Prime Minister and third President of the Republic of Namibia.

Indeed, a dark cloud is hanging over the people of the Land of the Brave who have lost a revolutionary and visionary leader who worked diligently to champi
on the fundamental rights and freedoms that are entrenched in the Namibian Constitution,’ he said.

The Head of State further noted that in celebrating Constitution Day, all Namibians should be proud of the peaceful and stable country, envied by many nations across the globe. Namibia is a vibrant democracy with a government with a strong resolve to guarantee the fundamental rights and freedoms which are the prerequisite for a peaceful, united and prosperous country.

‘I wish to remind Namibians that our work in pursuit of development and prosperity continues. As we celebrate the Constitution Day, let us all re-commit ourselves to the ideals of unity, peace and justice for all,’ the Namibian Leader concluded.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

ONATHINGE: A 45 Namibian male allegedly died instantly on Saturday when a piece of meat got stuck in his throat at Onathinge in the Oshikoto region.

According to the Namibian Police Force crime update on Saturday, the incident happened at about 16h00.

It is alleged that the deceased and other people from the village finished cultivating work at his neighbour’s house and went to the house for refreshments, where they were served meat and porridge.

‘The deceased who was eating alone from his plate started to bend down as if he wanted to vomit and that was when people realized that a piece of meat was stuck in his throat. He then collapsed and died on the spot and his body was transported to Onandjokwe State Hospital, where he was declared dead by a medical doctor,’ it read.

He was identified as Shilongo Nambinga, a resident of Onathinge North village, and his body was taken to Onandjokwe State Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem to be conducted.

No foul play is suspected and next of kin was informed, pendi
ng police investigation.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

OSHAKATI: Some residents in the Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions, were left in dire need after heavy rainstorms ripped through their areas, and destroyed their homes on Saturday evening.

According to councillor Ferdinand Shifidi of Endola constituency on Sunday, heavy storms coupled with rain and wind affected approximately 200 houses in Onepandaulo village, in the Ohangwena region, where the roofs of most structures were ripped off. No one was harmed.

‘Those affected are now left in dire need of assistance and we are waiting for advise on the way forward from the regional governor’s office,’ he said.

Shifidi noted that his office currently has no funds to assist the affected communities, but will do a full assessment and take the matter up with the office of the governor for further intervention.

Meanwhile, Iikokola village headman I-Ben Nashandi told this news agency that the storm uprooted homes, schools and trees, a situation which left the residents in the Oshikoto region in dire need of assistance.

‘
It is currently unknown how many houses were destroyed, as a proper assessment will be conducted,’ he said and cautioned residents to refrain from touching or moving electrical infrastructures that are damaged, as they pose a danger.

He expressed solidarity with all the affected residents and called on fellow citizens to assist with the speedy reconstruction of the area, as the damages to the properties are extensive.

No injuries were recorded.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

WINDHOEK: Sports journalists were on Saturday restricted in their coverage of track and field events at the second Grand Prix of the year hosted at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek by Athletics Namibia (AN).

The restrictions were a result of new rules implemented by the Pupkewitz Foundation, which recently became a sponsor for the event.

Photographers and journalists who wanted to cover the event were directed to do so from the stands or a mixed zone gazebo which was set up at the stadium, meaning they could not take close-up action photos of athletes.

The only individuals who were allowed to be on the field of play were athletes, AN officials, and the Pupkewitz_TV streaming service employees.

In an interview with Nampa on Sunday, Vernon Hugo from the Pupkewitz Foundation stated that the issue of journalists being restricted from taking photographs on and off the pitch will be resolved before the third AN Grand Prix, which is scheduled to take place in Swakopmund.

‘During our live streaming, we decid
ed to minimise movement on the field. As a result, we stopped reporters from being present on the field of play. However, we created a mixed zone where they could conduct interviews with athletes,’ he said.

Responding to queries about which rulebook was used to prevent photographers from being on the pitch side as this is allowed during major competitions, Hugo stated that they will consult with AN to improve their approach for future events.

Meanwhile, Berthold Karumendu, the Erongo regional sports officer based in Omaruru and a member of the AN Executive Committee, told Nampa on Sunday that they had intended to accredit journalists for the event. However, due to time constraints, they were unable to do so.

‘The media was supposed to get accredited for the event, but due to short notice, that was not possible. Athletics Namibia and our sponsors will look at ways to improve these engagements going forward. The media is very important in disseminating our information,’ he said.

Source: The Namibia Press A
gency

OSHAKATI: Namibia’s Ambassador to the United States of America (USA), Margaret Mensah-Williams held a memorial service on Saturday to honour the legacy of the late President Hage Geingob.

Geingob passed away at the age of 82 in Windhoek last Sunday.

‘He not only shaped Namibia, he shaped Africa,’ Mensah-Williams said during the ceremony held in Washington DC.

She told the mourners that the late Geingob made it his mission to prioritise education throughout his life although he had to leave his country of birth in pursuit of knowledge and instruction that would later help him to challenge and change the system.

The ambassador said he will always be hailed as the chief architect of the Namibian constitution and servant of the Namibian nation who devoted his life to liberating his country.

Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, in her remarks, stated that Geingob displayed his unwavering devotion to the people of Africa.

‘He was a true liberation hero who fought for the people of Namibia and Africa at large an
d was a leader of the people,’ Bowser said.

The embassies of the Russian Federation, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Haiti, Tanzania, Angola and The Philippines sent through their tributes to Mensah-Williams.

Zambia’s Ambassador to America, Chibamba Kanyama, stated that President Geingob provided significant leadership to help liberate the continent and help it gain economic independence.

‘That’s why the whole African continent is mourning a great leader,’ Kanyama said.

Zimbabwean Ambassador to America Tadeous Chifamba described President Geingob as a towering figure for the significant role both pre- and post-independence. As a Pan-Africanist he played a key role in the liberation of Namibia, he added.

Geingob fought apartheid in Africa and most of the ambassadors were privileged to rub shoulders with the great leader of Africa, Chifamba said.

Geingob will be laid to rest on 25 February 2024.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency