MIB Bulletin April 2009 - Namibian Government

Republic of Namibia

Government Information

BulletinApril 2009

IN Th

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President assesses flood

Page 6

Flood in Pictures

Page 8-9

state of the Nation address

3-20

Arid Namibia is Flooded

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The devastating floods destroyed homes in towns, settlements and crop fields in the north and north eastern parts of the country. President Hifikepunye Pohamba declared a state of emergency in areas most affected by the floods. A hut totally collapsed and leaving its thatched

roof floating above the water, People trying to rescue their belongings from submerged homes to the high grounds and crop fields were inundated with water

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Government Information Bulletin: Publicising GovernmentThe Government Information Bulletin was established through Cabinet decision number 13th/04.07.06/002 as an official information bulletin to publicise the Government’s programmes, policies and activities for the benefit of Government institutions and the Namibian public. All Government institutions contribute towards the Bulletin. The Government Information Bulletin is published monthly by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology. To meet the specific information needs of communities, the public is invited to

send comments and suggestions on Government projects, programmes and policies, which will then be covered in the Bulletin. More Government news and information can be accessed on the GRN news button on the Government internet site at www.grnnet.gov.na

The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural communities through the Ministry’s regional offices. The public and organisations are welcome to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing costs will be for the account of the subscriber.

Contents

private Bag 13344, Windhoektelephone 061 - 2839111Fax 061 - 230170E-mail [email protected] DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi, Windhoek.layout and printing Solitaire Press, Windhoek.

2

Arid Namibia is flooded ................................................... 1

aRid namiBia iS FloodEd: lives lost, food and

infrastructure destroyed, development halted ............... 3

namibia’s national policy for disaster Risk

Management in place ...................................................... 4-5

President assesses floods in areas declared state of

emergency ....................................................................... 6

FloodS in namiBia: civil protection mechanism

activated following worst floods in decades ................... 7

Floods in Pictures ............................................................ 8-9

deputy prime minister receives tents for

flood victims .................................................................... 10

MOD intensifies fight against HIV infection .................... 11

Karas region Hosts the 19th independence

anniversary....................................................................... 12

State of the Nation Address ............................................. 13-20

Extra hard working health workers to be

rewarded.......................................................................... 20

From the Desk of the MinisterThis year’s devastating floods plunged our country into untold catastrophe that pushed our people to live on the edge of the economy. Many lives have been lost, infrastructures destroyed, including villages and crop fields. Farmers were rendered helpless in their efforts to cultivate and plant their seeds due to fact that their fields were submerged in flood water. Grazing areas were also affected, making livestock’s survival difficult.

The Government’s efforts to assist the farmers increase their produce in the next harvesting season died still-born as the rain and floods from neighbouring countries became too strong than expected. The Government provided seeds and fertilizers to farmers with the aim to boost the bumper harvest in the following season. This could not be realised due to the fact that crop fields in the north and north eastern parts of our country were destroyed by the flood water.

In this special edition, the Ministry of information and Telecommunication Technology (MICT) is depicting images, covering different parts of the country that were affected by the floods. They are depicting the destruction of the country’s infrastructures, including telecommunications, roads, homes, schools, businesses, towns and settlements.

To mitigate the effects of the floods on the lives of the people, Namibian companies such as First National Bank, Cell One and other local stakeholders and some international organisations such as the European member states provided humanitarian aid to the country, following the call from President Hifikepunye Pohamba to the international community to assist Namibians to cope with the impacts of the devastating floods.

The Government has now put in place a National Policy for Disaster Risk Management, which will be implemented by all stakeholders in the country. The policy will address the effects of climate change in a systematic manner, in the future, instead of the current way of reacting to disasters when they occur. Since climate change is likely to be here with us for a longer time, Namibia will implement disaster risk management programmes to prevent and address adverse effects that the patterns of climate change may impose on our country.

Finally, a complete version of the President’s State of the Nation Address 2009 is reproduced here not only for the readers to read it themselves but also to keep it, as an important document, for future references.

Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Minister of Information and Communication Technology

Government Information Bulletin April 2009

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ArId NAmIBIA Is Flooded: lives lost, food and infrastructure destroyed, development halted

By Kaleni Hiyalwa

Namibia is becoming more and more a flood prone area, unlike in the

past when it was ravaged by prolonged droughts. For the past two years, the situation deteriorated as heavy rains and flood waters inundated and engulfed large parts of the north and north eastern parts of the country to the point when President Hifikepunye Pohamba had to declare a state of emergency in the most affected areas.

The floods had caused extensive destruction to human lives, homes, schools, health facilities, omahangu and maize fields, businesses as well as economic infrastructure such as roads and bridges. People’s lives remained under serious threat due to heavy floods, flowing from southern Angola and heavy rains that the country received this year.

President Pohamba considered this year’s floods as worse than the one that occurred in 2008. The President was worried about the effect of the floods on the government’s efforts to strengthen food security by assisting subsistence farmers to produce more staple food. The government planned to boost productivity by providing subsidies to subsistence farmers to buy seeds, assist them with ploughing and planting their fields, as the anticipation for bumper harvest became high. Farmers were reporting that early rains were beneficial to their crop growing. But the scenario was reversed when all of a sudden the heavy floods came and destroyed everything.

As a result, the crops in flood prone areas did not yield as expected, considering the large-scale investment that was put into the preparation and planting. Many crop fields in the Caprivi, Ohangwena, Kavango, Oshana and Kavango regions were submerged in flood water, causing widespread crop failures. Homes were completely under water and as a result food reserves were damaged and people were left empty handed.

As a result, the government declared a state of emergency to enable it to activate interventions to address the unprecedented emergency situation. The government, local and international non-governmental organisations and the private sector rallied together to assist the victims of the floods. The business community donated food,

blankets, money and clothing through the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, to the affected populations. The Red Cross and other volunteers distributed emergency food relief, including water purification tablets. To prevent disease outbreaks, such as cholera and malaria, the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Red Cross stepped up hygiene education campaigns. To mitigate the crisis, the President appealed for international aid to assist the affected population.

During the floods in 2008, affected people were moved to higher ground and temporary emergency camps were established to shelter some of the people whose homes were submerged in water. Grazing land for livestock in some parts of the Ohangwena, Omusati, Caprivi, Oshana, Oshikoto regions were inundated by water.

During the floods, many schools, health facilities and provision of social grants to the elderly were disrupted. More than 200 schools closed down, disadvantaging more than 100 000 learners mostly in the Oshana, Omusati and Ohangwena regions. Access routes to schools were flooded, making it difficult for learners and their teachers to reach their schools. Constituencies in the Kavango region such as Ndiyona, Kahenge, Kapako, Rundu Rural East and West and Mpungu were heavily flooded. Physical infrastructures, which include 85 percent of gravel roads in the affected areas, have been damaged.

Many businesses were also closed down causing a high rate of unemployment and loss of trade opportunities, especially for small and medium enterprises.

To effectively address the flood situation, the President directed that:• The office of the Prime Minister and other

stakeholders work closely with regional and local authorities to ensure timely delivery of all emergency supplies;

• Coordination mechanisms at all levels of disaster management be enhanced;

• The government, with the assistance of the development co-operation partners procured additional motorised boats to facilitate the distribution of emergency supplies and the evacuation of people in need;

• All Ministries should revisit the recommendations made in the 2008 National Flood Response Report to render government interventions more effective;

• Given the frequency of flooding in the past few years, all Regional Councils and Local Authorities put in place adequate contingency plans for affected people to reduce suffering;

• The Roads Authority conduct an in-depth study of all the roads that were destroyed or damaged by flood water with the view to addressing the identified shortcomings; and

• The Roads Authority to ensure that all bridges across the main water channels are reinforced to withstand the force of flood water.

The destructive nature of the floods is apparent for all to see. This is indeed one of the most destructive forces of nature. This year, floods have not only caused more destruction to our physical infrastructure, but human lives have also been lost,” said President Pohamba. Due to floods, many people in the Kavango and Caprivi regions fell prey to crocodiles and hippos, as they came to share the same surroundings due to the flooded locale.

These neighbouring homes in the north were all under water and abandoned by people


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Namibia’s National Policy for disaster risk management in place

To shift away from the approach of responding only to disasters after

they have occurred, to one of disaster risk management, the government has come up with a framework aimed at managing disaster risk holistically on a continuous basis. This will lessen the impacts of natural disasters and other environmental, technological and biological calamities. The approach focuses on minimising vulnerability and disaster risks throughout society by building resilience to disasters within the broad context of sustainable development.

• The policy aligns itself with the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters, which was adopted at the World Conference on Disaster Reduction held in Kobe, Hyogo, Japan in 2005;

• The Kyoto Protocol which is an agreement made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the international framework for disaster risks associated with climate change;

• The Africa Regional Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction, which aims to contribute to the attainment of sustainable development and poverty reduction by facilitating the integration of disaster risk reduction into development; and

taking into account:

• The need to integrate total disaster risk management into national and local development initiatives in Namibia;

• The priorities identified in the 2005 National Action Plan for Capacity Development in Disaster Risk Reduction in Namibia;

• The need for consistency in developing national capacity for disaster risk management and community resilience to disaster; and,

• The absence of a legal framework for disaster risk management in Namibia

The Policy is giving direction and defining the parameters for the implementation of the concept of total disaster risk management within the established National Disaster Risk Management System in Namibia. It focuses on

the reduction of disaster risk and building resilience.

There are several reasons why there is a need for a National Disaster Risk Management policy in the country. It is an established fact that disasters increase vulnerability of the poor, overstretching their coping capacities, deepening their poverty and preventing them from taking advantage of economic opportunities. Disaster risk reduction measures must focus on economic and social upliftment and on building resilience.

Disasters put development at risk. Natural disasters put development gains at risk, but development choices in turn can increase disaster risks. Therefore, one should ensure that every aspect of development contributes to

reducing disaster risks rather than generating new risks. Instead of choices being made that generate new disaster risk, development choices made by individuals, communities and government must contribute to a reduction of disaster risk.

Disasters cause human losses and hardship, constrain progress, damage and destroy infrastructure and the environment. The increasing threat of disasters coincides with the growing recognition that progress towards the Millennum Development Goals (MDGs) is not fast enough.

Efforts to address risks that constrain progress are required. Damage to housing, service infrastructure, savings, productive assets and human losses reduce livelihood and push vulnerable households into long term poverty and increased inequalities. Disaster can destroy educational infrastructure, disadvantage women and girls, destroy health infrastructure and can result in funds being diverted from development to humanitarian/relief support.

(The Government Information Bulletin will, from now on, run extracts from various government policy documents on this page. This is the first in the series)

The effects of disasters to human lives and their habitats are devastating. A young man crossing the water within their field as water cut-off human movements and interaction

Continues on page 5


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Continues from page 4Namibia’s National Policy for disaster risk management in placeDisasters often damage the environmental resources affecting environmental sustainable. They exacerbate deforestation and soil erosion. Both natural and technological disasters increase the likelihood of pollution. Natural disaster risk, including climate change-induced is closely connected to processes of human development.

Disaster relief/humanitarian sub-serves the goals of national development. While humanitarian assistance/relief is important, the focus should be to contribute to sustainable development through participatory planning approaches and prevent dependency on handouts. Humanitarian assistance programmes should therefore be implemented within the sustainable development framework of the country.

Developing capacities to deal with existing disaster risk is an effective way to generate capacity to deal with future climate change risk. Climate change aggravated by processes of global economic development poses a central unresolved development issue for many countries. In line with the Hyogo Framework of Action and the African Regional Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction that emphasise Disaster Risk Reduction recognises that developing capacities that deal with existing disaster risk is an effective way to generate capacity to deal with future climate change risk.

Disaster risk management is a multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary responsibility. It is important that the reduction of risks is viewed as a shared responsibility, requiring a continuous series of endeavours pursued across social, economic, governmental and professional sectors of activity.

Instead of being understood as a specialisation of security and emergency services or experts, comprehensive disaster risk management needs to involve many segments of society – starting with those members of the public who are themselves most exposed to anticipated hazards. This understanding is essential if communities are to become

more resilient to the effects of hazards so that disaster losses can be reduced in the future.Participation and ownership is core to effective disaster risk. Popular participation is a principle for sustainable livelihood security. Disaster risk management implementation requires the full participation and ownership of all role players/stakeholders in the activities aimed at reducing risk in both the short and long terms.

Gender relations affect how people experience disasters and how disasters impact people in general. Mainstreaming gender in disaster risk management is a vital component of disaster risk management implementation. It is the process to be considered to incorporate the concerns of women and men in policies and programmes to prevent and mitigate disasters.

The gender relations mainstreaming policy seeks to enhance gender aspects by promoting and increasing women’s participation in disaster risk reduction to improve their chances of survival and their resilience to livelihood. This also involves balancing the entitlements and responsibilities of both males and females in the disaster risk reduction process.

HIV/AIDS impacts negatively on human development. The debilitating impact of HIV/AIDS on human development is recognised as a long term problem. HIV/AIDS is viewed as a hazard and disaster. Mainstreaming HIV/AIDS into risk management initiatives is a

fundamental disaster risk management policy issue.

The involvement of other development agencies including UN agencies, donors and non-governmental organisations adds value to a national disaster risk management system. Development agencies, including the UN agencies, donors and non-governmental organizations have much to contribute in terms of technical, financial and material support for disaster risk management. They have experience of disaster risk management in other countries. Such experience will assist in developing programmes that effectively enhance community resilience to disasters in the long term. A disaster risk management policy must be guided by the best practices in disaster risk management that such development partners have adopted.

The National Risk Management Policy is grounded in five fundamental principles:

1. Fundamental human rights and freedoms2. Humanitarian principles and codes of

practices for humanitarian assistance3. The shift towards disaster risk reduction4. Protecting sustainable development

gains in the country by mainstreaming disaster risk reduction into the national development process

5. Sustainable ecosystem and environmental management

Homesteads stood like white elephants in flooded areas


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President Pohamba assured communities in the north after his

extensive flood assessment to Oshana, Oshikoto and Omusati regions that he will brief Cabinet members on what he observed. His report is expected to help mobilise resources to assist the affected and displaced citizens.

The President was on a two-day flood evaluation to affected areas. He noted that areas such as Omusati got a lot of water from heavy rainstorms, followed by the spill over of water from Southern Angola.

“This water in large volumes from everywhere is all heading to Oshana region, adding to the heavy rains that fell in region. Therefore, it makes it difficult to pass through the Oshana region to Etosha,” he remarked.

“Many villages are submerged in rain water, roads and bridges washed away, schools closed because pupils can not cross high levels of water through the oishana and many health services are disrupted,” the President said in shock.

In his empathetic usual tone, he described the “water-human conflict” as a hard to believe situation.

“I was disturbed to see Onesi Secondary School in water - class rooms and dormitories filled up with water, the roads from Onandjamba to Outapi, from Onesi to Tsandi have become treacherous. The bridge on the road to Okahao from Oshakati is in danger of possible collapse, many homes are destroyed. Towns and settlements such as Omungwelume, Onandjamba and Ondangwa are inundated with water for months and the traditional palace of King Immanuel Kauluma Elifas is not easily reachable,” noted the President.

“What I saw there, when I went nearer, was fish in the house,” President Pohamba remarked as he described the flood situation that submerged King Kauluma’s homestead. The fish was carried by the flood water from neighbouring Angola and the outlying dams that over-flooded the oishana and surrounding fields.

The President visited Uuvudthiya, in the Oshana region, by a helicopter, the only means of

transport that could reach the remote areas to provide humanitarian assistance to the people. Uuvudthiya is one of the areas in Namibia where large agricultural activities take place. It was totally cut off.” Cattle headers and many residents needed assistance.

The government, businesses and individuals responded quickly to the plight of the people affected by the floods. The police, the defence force and community members worked tirelessly to mitigate the severe effects of the floods.

Due to the severity of the disaster, the office of the Prime Minister designated a technical team of experts to the north to respond to the flood situation that threatened the lives and livelihood of the people. The Permanent Secretary of Regional and Local Government

and Housing and Rural Development, Erastus Negonga, headed the technical team.

Emergency Management Meetings with stakeholders took place every Wednesday to share their observations, experiences and reports about the devastating flood situation in efforts to find solutions to the problem.

President Pohamba‘s message of condolence, on behalf of the government, was sent through traditional leaders, regional and local authorities to families whose loved ones drowned in the flood water.

He advised the people to cross oishana in company of people who have knowledge of the local topography and avoid crossing at unknown points for safety and security of their lives.

President assesses floods in areas declared state of emergency

By Mulisa Simiyasa

President Hifikepunye Pohamba pays a solidarity visit to King Immanuel Kauluma Elifas, King of Ondonga and former Chairperson of the Council of Traditional Leaders during his flood assessment mission

to the Oshana region. In the background is the Ondonga Kingdom submerged in water

President Pohamba also visited schools to asses the damage caused by the floods. He is seen here with his entourage standing on a makeshift bridge at one of the schools


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Floods IN NAmIBIA: Civil Protection mechanism activated following worst floods in decades

The European Member States, through the Community Civil Protection

Mechanism, have come to the aid of Namibia, following the worst floods in southern Africa in decades. More than 350,000 citizens have been affected and some 13,000 displaced. Assistance is being offered by the Austrian authorities in the form of emergency health kits, tarpaulins and mosquito nets. Emergency health kits and tarpaulins arrived on Sunday April 5 and were handed over to the Office of the Prime Minister on April 6, while mosquito nets are planned to arrive on Thursday April 9. This complements financial donations from several EU Member States through other channels.

The European Commission activated the Community Civil Protection Mechanism on March 23 following a request from Namibia. A coordination and assessment team was immediately deployed on site, joining forces with the United Nations and the national government authorities to get a better picture

of the needs in the most affected regions. The team was also joined by an expert from the Commission Directorate General for Humanitarian Aid (DG ECHO). Last year, ECHO provided support totalling to €1,3 million, about N$ 16 million (March 2008).

The Civil Protection Mechanism’s Monitoring and Information Centre, based in Brussels, immediately deployed a team of assessment and coordination experts from Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, as well as a MIC liaison officer, to support national authorities in Namibia and help identify how best to contribute to the international relief efforts. The team has been conducting field assessments in the most affected regions, joining forces with the United Nations and the national government authorities to get a better picture of the situation and needs in the most affected regions.

Background information:The Monitoring and Information Centre (MIC) is operated by DG Environment in the

This settlement was deserted because the environment became unfriendly

This is one of the feeder roads which was destroyed by flood waters, causing difficulties in communication in the northern regions.

An aerial view shows infrastructures, gas and water installations were under water

Many schools were flooded and as a result closed down, affecting thousands of children

European Commission. It is the operational heart of the Community Mechanism for Civil Protection. It is available on a 24/7 basis, and provides countries access to the community civil protection platform. Any country affected by a major disaster – inside or outside the EU – can launch a request for assistance through the MIC.

During emergencies the MIC plays three important roles: serving as a communications hub for the exchange of requests and offers of assistance; providing information on civil protection preparedness and response to participating states as well as a wider audience of interested stakeholders; supporting co-ordination of the provision of European assistance.

Further information: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/civil/prote/mic.htm


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Floods in Pictures

A young man standing in an omahangu field, with rain water. If this field is anything to go by, there will be no harvest this year. Farmers would need food relief from the government and other stakeholders. President Pohamba appealed to the international community to assist in alleviating the plight of the people affected

“Eengobe dambuletu nghee dapita omishila opombada” – “Omitwe deenduda” (An Oshiwambo idiom literary translated, “The tails of our cattle have been high up all day” – “It is the heads of the thatched huts”. In relation to this situation, the heads of the thatched huts held their heads high, braving the strong flood water

No use to lock the doors because water has already seeped into the rooms from all sides. When natural disaster strikes, there is nowhere to hide

Even chickens and cats where not spared. Life became dreadful. They where left behind as people abandoned their homesteads for higher ground


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Floods in Pictures

Life is wrecked. This tells it all. Peoples’ homes became inhabitable. Reconstruction, after the floods, will be needed. A thatched hut’s mud wall and everything inside was destroyed

Businesses stopped operating and owners had to rescue their goods. As a result thousands of people were deprived of their daily incomes, making survival difficult. The majority of people in the north depend on small and medium enterprises for employment and income-generation. Now they stand helplessly,

keeping watch of their goods as there is no transport to ferry them to safer places.

Nothing was left in its normal form and place. Flood water spread everywhere and made its way inside the buildings

It is water everywhere


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Deputy Prime Minister receives tents for flood victims

By Julia Hamhata

Assisting with the alleviation of the serious problem of shelter in the

north-eastern part of the country, the Namibia Disaster Relief Fund donated 300 tents to the tune of N$ 370,000 for the flood victims on 9 April 2009.

Receiving the donation was the Deputy Prime Minister and Goodwill Ambassador of the Namibia Disaster Relief Fund, Hon. Dr. Libertina Amathila.

The Deputy Premier expressed her gratitude towards the relief fund members for their noble commitment. “It gives me great joy and pleasure when I see the caring hearts of our people. It is good for us in government, when we see how Namibian public and private sector companies and even individuals hold hands and support each other in moments when natural disasters strike,” she said.

Dr. Amathila noted that recipients of the donated tents will be elated as winter is now approaching and the temperature can be chilly at night. “I believe that these tents will bring some relief and warmth to our affected brothers and sisters,” she said.

Witnessing the donation was the Director-General of the National Planning Commission, Professor Peter Katjavivi, who co-received the sample cheque of the donation with Dr. Amathila. The Goodwill Ambassador highlighted that she believes there are synergies for government and the private sector to join hands and confront the challenges collectively. “If we continue to work together as one united nation, Namibia will surely be the role-model for many African countries, wishing to emulate our style of doing things,” Amathila said.

The donated tents were already dispatched to the recipients at the time of the donation.

The Relief FRund comprises of First National Bank (FNB), Cell One, The Namibian Newspaper, Omulunga Radio, One Africa TV and Cymot.

The First National Bank of Namibia and Cell One were some of the local businesses which assisted flood victims. Here, Dr. Libertina Amathila, Deputy Prime Minister and Professor Peter Katjavivi, Director-General of the

National Planning Commission are receiving a check from FNB Namibia and tents from Cell One

One of the tents donated by Cell One


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The hope to intensify and combat the spread of HIV infections among the

military personnel reached yet another crucial stage with the inauguration of the first military Anti-Retroviral (ARV) clinic named Fountain of Hope and the laboratory facilities at the Military Hospital at the Army Headquarters in Grootfontein.

This health facility was opened and launched on 30 March 2009 by Hon. Maj Gen (rtd) Charles Namoloh “aka” Ho-Chi-Minh, Minister of Defence and Her Excellency Dennise Mathieu, the United States of America (USA) Ambassador to Namibia.

The Fountain of Hope clinic is located in the old military hospital building which was revamped and furnished with the assistance of the International Training and Education Centre for HIV (I-TECH) and the Namibian Social Marketing Association (SMA). Funds amounting to N$2.8 million were made available by the (USA) President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the aim for funding was restoring hope among the military personnel living with HIV. The establishment of the clinic will enable soldiers to access free HIV counselling, testing and treatment services within the military vicinity. The clinic will also become a place where soldiers would seek medical help without fear of stigmatisation, discrimination and where confidentiality of personal information will be respected.

Before handing over the facility, Ambassador

MOD intensifies fight against HIV infectionBy Martin Tomas

M a t h i e u r e m a r k e d that the clinic was a perfect example of what the USA through Department of Defence and the Namibia’s Ministry of Defence have been able to achieve in the fight against HIV/AIDS under the (USA) P r e s i d e n t ’ s

Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Military Action and Prevention Programme (MAPP).

She said that the partnership is also helping to build sustainable systems, improve prevention, care and treatment services as well as empower civilians and military personnel to combat the scourge.

“I understand that the military condom, “protector”, has become popular in every corner of the country and this shows that our joint efforts are paying off in ensuring that people can protect themselves against sexual transmitted infections,” stated Ambassador Mathieu.

The Ambassador urged military leaders and commanders to take charge and ensure that HIV programmes are well-coordinated and effectively implemented.

“Effective HIV p r o g r a m m e s depend on the development and implementat ion of strong policies that ensure that military personnel living with HIV are treated in the same way as those with other disease, adding

Fountain of Hope Clinic inaugurated at Grootfontein

Hon. Maj. Gen (rtd) Charles Namoloh, MP, Minister of Defence shaking hands with Ambassador Dennise Mathieu, United States Ambassador to

Namibia at the inauguration of the Fountain of Hope Clinic

that infected military staff are assigned responsibility in accordance with their ability to perform their duties but not their HIV status,” she reiterated.

Upon accepting and unveiling the facility, Minister Namoloh revealed the significance of investing in such a project. He said investing in the treatment, care and support of members living with HIV/AIDS complements and enhances prevention activities.

“It will improve quality of life, maintain the working capacity of members infected and affected by AIDS and decrease social impact of the scourge,” said the minister.

The Minister pointed out that attitude and practice change play a vital role in combating the deadly disease and urged military, as well as civilian personnel to change their attitude and practice, so as to perfect themselves from being infected.

“Knowing your HIV status is an important step in changing your behaviour. Adopt safe sex practices so that you do not infect others and avoid re-infection,” he said, adding that “soldiers with knowledge on the impact of the HIV pandemic should teach those with little knowledge”.

Speaking in the African context, the Defence Minister said the scourge remains the continental’s greatest development and security challenge. He warned that such continent’s challenges should be consistently dealt with to realise Vision 2030 and the Millennium Development Goals.


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Karas region hosts the 19th independence anniversary

By Kaleni Hiyalwa

The Karas region had its turn to host the independence celebration when

the 19th independence anniversary was held at Keetmanshoop on 21 March 2009. President Hifikepunye Pohamba described it as a day of pride for every Namibian and friends of Namibia. He explained that the day signified and bears testimony to the bravery and perseverance of the Namibian people.

The Head of State said that the celebration reminds Namibians of the birth of the nation after many years of oppression from when the chains of bondage were broken and Namibia joined the free nations of the world as a free and independent country.

The day offered an opportunity for Namibians to reflect on the achievements recorded to date, and those that lie ahead. “We also pause to reflect on the challenges facing our nation and how these challenges can be mitigated as we chart a new direction towards a future filled with hope,” President Pohamba told the crowd at the Keetmanshoop Soccer Stadium.

“The freedom and independence that we enjoy today was not given to us on a silver platter. It was brought about through the sacrifices, bravery and gallantry of the sons and daughters of our soil who stood firm to fight against colonialism and apartheid oppression. We owe an everlasting debt of gratitude to our heroes

and heroines who sacrificed their lives and shed their precious blood so that, we, the people of the Land of the Brave, can live in peace and freedom,” he added.

President Pohamba noted that people who do not know where they come from, will not know where they are going and they are doomed to perish.

He stressed the importance of tracing the history of Namibia from the anti-colonial resistance to the armed liberation struggle that is shaping the country’s future.

He urged the young people to learn and master Namibia’s history from the battle field exploits of Hendrik Witbooi to the battlefield ingenuity of Samuel Maharero, from the patriotism of Kahimemwa Nguvauva to the bravery of Mandume ya Ndemufayo, from the uncompromising posture of Ipumbu ya Tshilongo to the guerilla tested Jacob Marengo, from the victorious Nehale lya Mpingana to the unwavering spirit of Sam Nujoma, from the dedication of Tobias Hainyeko and Dimo Hamaambo to the vision of Peter Nanyemba and battle-tested Greenwell Matongo.

“This is the foundation upon which we can build a stronger and a more prosperous Namibia. It is the mountain top upon which we stand to see clearly far on the horizon,” observed the President. He advised that all Namibians should stand together on the shoulders of the giants of history and join hands to build a better Namibia, noting that “our heroes and heroines who made us what we are today - a free, proud and independent nation - come from all parts of our country”.

The Head of State emphasised that the ideals of heroes and heroines, whose blood waters our freedom, made it possible that all citizens walk tall and should be proud Namibians.

He regretted that the

colonial war pitted brother against brother, sister against sister and neighbour against neighbour and as a result, racial divisions and discrimination were accentuated. “We have transcended that difficult past in our history and are now united to reach for the common goal and a common vision to make Namibia the best that she can be,” said the President.

The Head of State pointed out that the policy of national reconciliation made it possible for us to restore peace, tolerance and mutual understanding among our people who were harassed and brutalised by the war mongers of the apartheid colonialism. After independence was won, the President said, Namibians committed themselves to accelerating socio-economic development and to the improvement of the living standards of all the people. “I am happy to state confidently that notable progress has been made in this regard,” he added.

The President also noted that the country has built strong institutions of governance through which national development policies are being implemented. He observed that major development projects have been implemented across the country. “We can proudly say that the majority of our people now have access to the basic amenities such as food, shelter, water, safety, security and human dignity. We have built schools, hospitals, clinics, roads, railways and other infrastructure across the country. Potable water and electricity are now available to thousands of our citizens and rural electrification has changed the rural landscape,” he said.

Lt. General Matin Shalli, Chief of the Defence Force

Some of the NDF soldiers marching at the 19th Independence anniverary at Keetmanshoop


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I stand before this joint Session of our Parliament to report on the State of the Nation, covering

the 2008/2009 Financial Year. As per constitutional direction, I will focus my attention on the policies and programmes of our Government during the period under review and also provide insights into our future plans in the new Financial Year. This is in keeping with the values and ethos of accountability, transparency and good governance to which we are fully committed. I am here today not only because that is what the constitution demands, but because we as a Government have a commitment and duty to promote and live by these values.

A few weeks ago, the Namibian people commemorated our 19th Anniversary of freedom and independence, a date on which we remember our rendezvous with history. A day when we as a people, took into our own hands the social, political and economic destiny of our country. We remember the sacrifices made by the brave sons and daughters of our soil who gave their lives and shed their blood for our freedom and independence. Theirs was the utmost demonstration of patriotism and will always remember and salute them for their selflessness and gallantry. The work that we have done and continue to do, the progress that we have scored and continue to record, were made possible by their sacrifices.

The Economy and Global Economic CrisisFor Namibia, the period under review was a time of mixed blessings. The peace and stability that we enjoy has made it possible for Government to remain focused on the pressing issues of the day. I have in mind the issues of economic growth, employment creation, the social and economic well-being of our people, and the development challenges that demand our attention in the areas of health, education, housing, education and training, employment creation as well as the provision of the basic amenities such as water, electricity and human security.

During this time of global recession, utmost in the minds of our people is the state of the national economy and the impact of the global economic crisis on our country. The Namibian economy is inextricably connected to the global economy through trade and investment. Deteriorating global demand four our products has hurt our mining industry resulting in the closure of mines, the scaling back of operations and loss of jobs. These developments have cost our economy hundreds of millions of dollars since October last year.

Given the small size of the domestic market, our Government has made export promotion and the

development of new markets a central component of the country’s economic growth strategy.

In this connection, our Government is pursuing negotiations to secure preferential market access for our goods and services under bilateral, regional and multilateral trade arrangements under the ambit of SACU; the SADC Protocol on Trade, which has resulted in the launch the SADC Free Trade Area in August 2008, a Preferential Trade Agreement between SACU the SACU-EFTA Free Trade Agreement; the Generalized Systems of Preferences; the Namibia-Zimbabwe Preferential Trade Agreement; and the USA-Africa Growth and Opportunity Act.

This is being done to broaden our economic space and to overcome constraints imposed on local industries by limited economies of scale. Namibia wishes to enter into trade arrangements that provide preferential market access for our products and services as well as alternative sources of imports for the domestic market.

I take note that some progress has been made in the negotiations of an Economic Partnership Agreement with European Union, although more work remains to be done before the process can be finalized. We will continue to engage with our partners such as the European Union while insisting on, and highlighting the tremendous strategic and economic consequences that such agreements can have on smaller economies such as Namibia.

Although Namibia has been performing relatively well in terms of investment inflows in comparison to other countries in the region, the level of FDI and domestic investment remain rather low, generating inadequate levels of employment and economic growth envisaged in Vision 2030.

We welcome the new investments and expansion by local companies in the construction, retail, property development and tourism sectors. The livestock industry is also steadily moving beyond the traditional export of chilled deboned beef. There is, however, still greater scope for expanded local value addition and exports of manufactured products.

Unfortunately, global foreign direct investment (FDI) flows are expected to fall due to the global economic downturn that has most hit the industrialized countries. In this regard, we must intensify our efforts to attract investments and enhance our image as a competitive investment location.

Despite of the global economic downturn, there is

strong investor confidence and interest in Namibian. I wish to point to the recent investment of N$2.5 billion by Germany’s Schwenk Group in Ohorongo Cement and the N$2 billion Namundjebo Plaza Hotel development by Namibia’s United Africa Group.

The process of revising our investment laws and incentive packages is continuing. This must go hand-in-hand with measures to raise awareness about the importance of a cost-effective and synergetic systems to provide faster and high quality services to the business sector, at all times.

Our macro-economic framework and longer-term forecasts are stable and positive. However, we face considerable challenges in the short term. Like many other countries, Namibia may face a period of economic contraction as the result the current world recession.

Memories are still fresh of the major fluctuations in oil prices which were experienced last year. This resulted in price increases in prices which dampened performance in some key economic sectors on which our growth is anchored. It also resulted in the increase in food prices, placing undue pressure on many households in Namibia, especially on the low income groups

In order to mitigate these effects, Government introduced relief measures such as VAT exemption on certain essential basic food items. We are all concerned about the economic outlook in these uncertain times and rightly so. We all wonder how long these lean years will last. However, I believe that that the difficult times may offer new opportunities that can be utilised to provide viable short-, medium- and long-term solutions.

Our Government is actively seeking ways to deal with negative impact of the global financial crisis on our economy. In this light, I have tasked my Minister of Trade and Industry and the Cabinet Committee on Trade and Economic Development to consult with relevant stakeholders, to advise Government on the extent of the impact of the crisis and to propose required interventions to put in place a national response.

This calls for close cooperation and synergies involving all sectors of our society. The Bank of Namibia has done its part to respond to the situation, by among other things keeping the interest rates unchanged. Government has also reduced increase tax for different wage categories while revising the income tax threshold to N$40 000-00. I trust that collectively, as a nation, we can and will weather the storm.

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state of the Nation AddressThe performance of our national economy is one of the most important barometers to gauge the well-being of the Nation. I am happy to say that despite the global downturn our economy has generally held steady.

It is encouraging that we expect a sustained pattern of domestic tax inflows observed during the last three quarters. Revenue projections for the next three years stand at N$20.69 billion for 2009/2010, N$20.03 billion for 2010/2011 and N$21.35 billion for 2011/2012.

During the review period about N$168 million in dividends was received from state owned enterprises and other entities in which the Government holds interests.

The Bank of Namibia, Namport, NDTC Namibia, Rossing Uranium, Nampost and Telecom Holdings, and the Lüderitz Water Front declared dividends. Namibia also received an amount of N$563,600.00 in dividends from the African Export/Import Bank.

A strong labour force is crucial for keeping our national economy vibrant and dynamic. It is for this reason that Government has modernized our labour legislation. Now that the new Labour Act has came into operation, we hope to see speedier resolution of labour disputes.

It is pleasing that by adopting the mechanisms introduced by the Act, the majority of labour disputes are being resolved amicably. Close to four thousand disputes were recorded last year, however, only 86 were referred to the District Labour Court.

I have followed with keen interest the developments regarding services that being made available in the labour sector including the opening of Regional Labour Offices in different towns including Opuwo and Outapi in recent months. Similar offices will be opened at Rundu and Gobabis this year.

We are aware that employment creation is one of the greatest challenges facing our nation today. In order to address this challenge, Government will introduce legislation to create a stronger legal framework, institutions and tools to support economic growth and employment creation.

These include the Employment Services Bill, which will establish a national electronic employment information system to register job seekers, list job vacancies, match jobseekers and prospective employers, identify skills deficits and provide

information on enterprises, training and bursary opportunities. Employers will be required, by law, to report all employment vacancies to the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. There will also be legislation to establish an Employment Creation Commission to coordinate national employment creation initiatives. These Bills will be tabled in this Financial Year.

While we await the enactment of legislation, we must work within the existing laws to facilitate employment creation and the smooth functioning of the labour market. I have learnt that Public Employment Offices have been established in all thirteen regions to serve as multi-functional labour market centers.

We know that unemployment situation is worsened skills deficits. With the policy framework in place, our focus will now shift to ensure that skills development structures are set up to enable a speedy response to labour market demands.

Our Government facilitates and promotes skills development through vocational training and counseling services. Qualified Vocational Counselors are stationed at Regional Labour Offices to provide guidance to young people to enter into professions that match their competencies and aptitudes. They also play an important role in identifying latent entrepreneurial skills in the youth who can be assisted to start successful self-employment activities. This is an important strategy in our drive to fight unemployment.

I am pleased to announce that the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare will provide these services free of charge. I urge all education officials, especially school principals, to allow their learners to have access to this important service. I also call upon the unemployed youth to utilize these services.

The National Youth Credit Scheme is contributing positively to helping our youth to gain skills for a more secure future. Hundreds of youth have received mentoring as well as training under this scheme in basic business management and other aspects. During the review period, 2,235 youth were trained in business management, 2,219 received loans and 2,376 jobs were created by youth enterprises. Plans are underway to replicate the Scheme in all regions of the country from the next financial year.

The Government’s social grant programme provides a social safety net for vulnerable groups in our society. It also goes a long way to reduce poverty among the most vulnerable people,

families, and communities. Through this programme, grants are paid to the elderly and people with disabilities. According to the most recent statistics, the current national coverage of Old Age Grant stands at 88.24 percent, while that of Disability Grant stands at 18.26 percent.

The government increased the grants from N$370 to N$450 last year and the benefit is currently paid to over 151,490 beneficiaries, of which 131,052 are Old Age and 20,438 are People with Disabilities. This is projected to increase to the 154,000 mark. The Ministry has also increased the funeral benefit to N$2,200.00 per person from the N$2,000 mark last year.

For our Government to succeed in achieving our national development objectives, we must plan thoroughly and meticulously. We must be able to measure the progress that we are making and also make adjustments where goals are not being met. It is for this reason that we have moved purposefully to reinforce our planning tools to meet the challenges facing us.

I am happy to say that The Third National Development Plan was successfully launched in November last year.

The National Planning Commission is currently busy with an Annual Review of the implementation of NDP3 to track the performance of different implementing agencies, with specific focus on the achievement of annual targets and the identification of constraints.

Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)Another programme that we must keep monitoring is the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. The 2008 MDG Progress Report has brought to light important insights about the realities of poverty levels in different communities in Namibia.

It indicates that poor and severely poor households make up around 28 percent of all households in the country. The good news is that Namibia has already achieved the target of halving the number of severely poor households in the country. Moreover, inequalities in income distribution have been reduced considerably, although the levels remain unacceptably high. We will continue to do more to pull more households out of the mire of poverty.

With regard to the provision of universal primary education. Namibia has achieved an enrolment rate of 92 percent at national level and we are


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Continues from page 14state of the Nation Addressworking hard towards meeting the target of 99 percent enrolment by 2012.

In the area of the promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women, I am happy to note that our efforts to provide greater access by our girl children to education have borne fruit. Today, the ratio of girls to boys stands at 98 in primary schools, 177 in secondary schools and 88 in tertiary education institutions. This shows that Namibia has achieved gender parity in secondary school education. All indications are that the same will be achieved in both primary and tertiary education streams. With regard to literacy levels, there are now 103 literate women to 100 men. Thus in terms literacy, gender parity has also been achieved. The representation of women in decision - making structures has also improved. Today, 27 percent of the seat in Parliament are occupied by women.

We are concerned about the child mortality rates which have shown an upward trend in recent years. This is compounded in part by the HIV/Aids pandemic and inadequate nutrition, especially in low income households. This threat must be addressed with all the force and resources that we can muster.

Indeed, it calls for the intensification of prevention of the transmission of the virus from expectant mothers to their unborn babies. It also calls for the expansion of immunization of all children against childhood illnesses. Immunization coverage currently stands at around 84 percent of all one-year-old children in Namibia. We are on course to achieve the MDG target of 100 percent immunisation coverage by 2012. Of major importance, is the need to address the existing regional disparities with regard to immunisation coverage.

The health of Namibian mothers is paramount in the development of our country. We must work harder to improve the health of Namibian mothers by increasing anti-retroviral treatment for those infected by HIV/Aids, while also ensuring that more and more births are attended by trained health personnel. This figure stands currently at just over 80 percent. We are on tract to meet the 95 percent target set by the MDGs by 2012.

The fight against the HIV/Aids pandemic has been intensified on many fronts, resulting in encouraging outcomes. The prevalence rate has dropped from 12 to 10 percent among the 15-19 years age group, and from 20 to 16.4 percent in the 20 to 24 years age group.

The Ministry of Health and Social services carried out a Health and Social Services System Review reflecting on the successes and challenges in the Namibian public health sector since independence. As a result, a Health Strategic Plan for the period 2009 to 2013 was developed.

Accelerated training of health professionals remains a key priority in addressing the shortage of qualified health professional. A total number of 381 students in health related completed the training at the Ministry’s Health Training Centers at the end of 2008. Meanwhile, a total of 23 Namibian medical doctors completed their degrees and are undergoing internship at Katutura and Windhoek Central Hospitals.

I am pleased to report that the signing of the Partnership Agreement in Health between the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Anglican, Lutheran (ELCIN), and Roman Catholic Churches took place in October 2008. With this, government will give a 100 percent subsidy for salaries and 85 percent for capital projects to Church hospitals.

Our people will be pleased to learn that Namibia achieved surveillance standard for certification of Polio-free status from the WHO Africa Regional Certification Commission.Honourable SpeakerHonourable Chairperson,

As a Government, we are constantly striving to combat the impact of poverty on our people. Towards this end, a number of pro-poor policies and strategies have been introduced. A new poverty line indicator based on the Cost of Basic Needs approach was introduced in 2008. This will help the Government to identify and design effective measures to assist poor households.

I have previously used this platform to express the need for improved methods for monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of Government policies.

I am happy that the NPC is currently busy with the establishment of a comprehensive Monitoring, Reporting and Evaluation System to foster pragmatic monitoring, reporting and evaluation of programmes in the ambit of NDP3.

Development Co-operationOur Government has successfully engaged our development co-operation partners to enhance mutually beneficial relationships and build stronger partnerships. This has brought about many benefits for Namibia, such as support in terms of

funding and technical assistance from various countries and organisations. In August last year, Namibia hosted the 3rd International Ministerial Conference on Development Co-operation with Middle Income Countries. The Conference adopted a resolution on the development needs of MICs that was presented to the 63rd Session of the UN General Assembly.

I wish to express my appreciation to our development co-operation partners who have stood with us through think and thin even during these difficult times caused by the global economic crisis. We appreciate your support and assistance.

In addition to the monitoring and evaluation of Government Programmes, we must also ensure that all public funds allocated to public institutions by Parliament are utilised for their intended purposes and that they are accounted for.

This critical role is played by the Attorney General who completed 109 audit reports relating to the State Revenue Fund Local Authorities, Regional Council Statutory Boards and some state-owned enterprises.

FisheriesThe Marine sector continues to make significant contribution to the national economy. It also constitutes one of the biggest contributors to employment, with about 14 000 people employed by the sector on permanent basis. Over the period under review, the sector attracted both local and international investments.

In 2008, a new factory called Pomona, opened in Lüderitz. It was built at a cost of N$13 million and processes lobster for export markets, mainly in the Far East. Another factory by Aqua Taga, a joint venture between Australians and Namibians is nearing completion at Walvis Bay. Other welcome investments have been made in the fishing sector, thereby modernizing the facilities and creating secure jobs in the sector.

During the year under review, the Ministry doubled production at aquaculture projects that are located in Omusati, Kavango and Caprivi Regions. It is estimated that approximately five million metric tons of oysters can be harvested. From 2003 to date, Government invested more than N$62, million in freshwater aquaculture which now employs 683 people.

In October 2008, the Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries Institute was inaugurated. It has already started



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state of the Nation Addresswith research and training activities.

It is designed to become a center of Excellence, not only for Namibia, but for the entire SADC Region.

In August 2008, the Ministry hosted an international conference on fisheries and aquaculture at Swakopmund. It was attended by delegates representing the private sector, Government, development co-operation partners; NGOs, academic institutions and researchers.

Steps have been taken to establish a fish feed plant at Onavivi at the cost of N$6 million. The plant will use local raw materials such as fish meal from our fishing industry and the agricultural sector. We welcome the cooperation between the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and the National Youth Service (NYS) to deploy members of the National Youth Service for training at aquaculture projects around the country. This will give NYS members skills in fish farming, which they can use to teach communities to practice integrated crop and fish farming techniques.

Our Government has taken practical steps to conserve our marine resources. Part of this strategy is to allocate the TAC conservatively, taking into account the observed bio-mass and research statistics.

This is part of our commitment to utilise our natural resources in a sustainable manner for the benefit of future generations.

HousingFollowing its restructuring and re-organization during the past three years, the National Housing Enterprise acquired close to 6,000 plots throughout the country at a combined value of N$12.9 million. Out of that number, 1234 plots have been serviced at the cost of N$66.3 million.

In addition, 734 houses have been constructed throughout the country at a combined amount of N$76.4 million. Furthermore, the company spent over N$194.3 million during the same period on financing project houses, home loans, home improvement loans, study loans, and building loans.

During the 2008/2009 Financial Year, NHE has been busy constructing 871 houses at an estimated cost of N$ 150 million. It is also busy installing municipal infrastructure on land that will yield 836 fully serviced plots, at an

estimated cost of N$ 50 million. Furthermore, NHE is investing directly in municipal services infrastructure; introducing and implementing a rural housing development programme; while growing and effectively managing its loan book and other assets.

These efforts will contribute greatly towards the achievement of our National Development Plans and Vision 2030.

Physical planning, surveying and construction of municipal services are important ingredients for ensuring efficient housing delivery. As such, Divundu proper, Okalongo proper, Kalkrand, Aranos Extension 4, Gochas and Bethanie were surveyed during 2008/2009, while the surveying of Koës, Aroab, Leonardville, Aranos Extension 5, Okalongo Extension 1 and Fransfontein will be carried out during 2009/2010. Otjinene is to be proclaimed as a town this year.

A programme to replace the bucket system in the whole country is already underway in Stampriet, Kalkrand, Aroab and Kamanjab.

Moreover, the construction of services such as water, sewerage and roads networks is underway at Bukalo, Henties Bay, Rehoboth, Aussenker, Divundu, Katima-Mulilo, Nkurenkuru, Otjinene, Otuzemba in Opuwo and Omuthiyagwiipundi.

The Trust Fund for Regional Development and Equity Provision implemented three major projects for upgrading of the sewerage networks in Karibib, Ruacana and Rundu.

Training workshops were conducted for both Regional and Local Authorities Councillors and officials to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the Build Together Programmes. Again, an evaluation of the Build Together Programme was carried and the findings have been incorporated in the revised housing policy, which will be submitted to Cabinet soon.

The proclamation of new local authorities is progressing well. Focus is now on the Caprivi Region where only one Local Authority exists. Omuthiya in the Oshikoto Region was proclaimed as a Town and elections for the Local Authority Council took place in September 2008.

The planning and surveying of Oranjemund Township have been finalized and the Ministry envisages finalizing the proclamation of the town during 2009. Divundu will also be proclaimed as a town soon.In order to facilitate the smooth running of the

Traditional Authority activities, Government decided to provide vehicles to all recognised Traditional Authorities.

On the decentralization front Cabinet has approved the delegation of the maintenance functions as well as the Primary and Secondary Education functions to the Regional Councils with effect from 1 April 2009.

A San bread-making project (bakery) at Oshivelo in Oshikoto region has been completed and is providing bread to San children at subsidized prices and selling to other community members.

Construction of low-cost houses for San households at Okatuuo in the Omaheke Region has been completed and dwellings handed over to the beneficiary households by the Right Honourable Deputy Prime Minister.

Currently, community revolving small livestock projects are ongoing at Tsumkwe, Bagani, Chetto and Omega III through the Otjozondjupa, Kavango and Caprivi Regional Councils.

A Craft kiosk was established at Omega III to sell San souvenirs, taking advantage of the tourists using the road.

The Region Specific Action Plans for Food Security and Nutrition, which address cross-cutting issues of food security and poverty, were launched in December 2008.

In the same vein, all the identified regions inhabited by the San communities are to benefit from the “Empowerment of the San Community for Household Food Security” project. The San community programme was transferred to the Office of the Prime Minister from 1 March 2009.

Security, Law and OrderA strong criminal justice system is a critical factor in a democratic state based on the rule of law. We need strong institutions in this area in order to safeguard the rights of our citizens and maintain law and order.

Specific steps were taken to address the backlog of cases on our court roll, including the recruitment of additional magistrates.

The reporting period also saw the opening of the High Court of Namibia at Oshakati, the completion of a new court building at Khorixas and the commencement of the construction of a new court building at Tsumkwe.




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The Caprivi Treason Trial is ongoing. In recent months, progress was slowed as a result of the withdrawal of one of the foreign defence lawyers. This necessitated the re-distribution of the accused to remaining counsel. The case is due to continue later this month.

We welcome improvements in the conviction rate of criminal in the Regional Courts. Of the 766 cases finalised, 541 ended in convictions. This speaks to the effectiveness of our criminal justice system, from the investigating officers to court officials.

The Magistrates’ Courts finalised 29 415 cases, with 16 200 convictions The Ministry implemented the Namibian Court Information System which started in Windhoek and has now been rolled out to other Magistrates’ Offices, such as Swakopmund, Usakos, Karibib Omaruru and Walvis Bay. It will be soon be rolled out country-wide to all Magistrates’ Offices soon. Namibia has acceded to and ratified multilateral international instruments such as the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime and its Protocols, the UN, AU and SADC Conventions/Protocols against Corruption, SADC Protocol on Extradition; and most recently the UN Convention against the Illicit Trafficking in Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. In this manner, we have joined hands with the international community to combat transnational organised crime including corruption, illicit drug trafficking, money laundering, terrorist financing, human trafficking, human smuggling, and other forms of serious economic crime.

Furthermore, Namibia has entered into bilateral extradition and mutual legal assistance treaties with other states such as Angola, China, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Botswana. Negotiations to conclude similar agreements are continuing with Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Russia.

During the reporting period the Ombudsman received one thousand four hundred and thirty eight (1438) complaints, 75 percent of which were resolved.

EducationDuring the 2008/2009 Financial Year, Government built 467 classrooms, 18 libraries, 28 administration seats, 38 teachers houses, 117 ablution blocks and 902 accommodation spaces for learners. The Pre- Primary Phase was introduced into Primary Schools, with one hundred schools already having successfully

state of the Nation Addressimplemented the change over. An additional 100 more schools were added in the cause of this year.

The provision of quality education to all our children is at the heart of ETSIP and Government is committed to the accelerated its implementation.

As part of this programme, the Ministry of Education has implemented the National External School Evaluations to ensure quality education provision.

A new Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC) qualification and examinations was also introduced to replace the IGCSE and HIGCSE qualifications and examinations of Cambridge International Examinations. The number of candidates in this phase increased from just under 36,000 in 2007 to more than 40 000. In Grade 10, more than 36 000 sat for examinations in 2008.

The School Feeding Programme was expanded, with the doubling of the number of learners and the amount of resources. School feeding programmes are good for student retention in schools.

Cabinet took a decision to allow those who did not meet the requirements to proceed to Grade 11 to repeat Grade 10. Some learners were re-admitted as full-time candidates, while others registered with NAMCOL and Vocational Education and Training Centers, respectively.

Our national curriculum has been improved to include more innovative subjects like entrepreneurship, Information and Communication Technology, as well as Crafts and Technology. A new Vocational Education and Training Act, No. 1 of 2008 was passed, paving the way for the creation of the National Training Authority. Furthermore, Vocational Education and Training was added as another stream for Grade 10 repeaters.

Our tertiary educations institutions are growing and expanding, catering for the demand for tertiary education in our country. The University of Namibia now has 8 faculties, 4 academic centres and a total of 792 staff comprising academic, administrative and support staff.

In addition to the main Campus in Windhoek and 4 other campuses at Ogongo, Oshakati, Ongwediva, and Neudamm, there is a Centre of External Studies (CES) with nine Outreach Centres in different towns. During the period under review, UNAM added one new Faculty and three Schools a part of the Universtiy. The School of Engineering was inaugurated at Ongwediva recently. The total

number of students enrolled in different faculties at UNAM stands at more than 10,000 this year, including both full time and part time students.

The Polytechnic of Namibia is also growing steadily. Enrolment numbers now stand at 10,000 students while there are approximately 100 academic qualifications on offer ranging from certificates diplomas, degrees and masters degrees. The institution has established new degree programmes in Bio-medical and Health sciences and Master programmes in Water Management, International Business, Integrated Land Management, Comparative Local Governance, Leadership and Change Management.

Agriculture, Food Production etcThe revised Green Scheme Policy was recently approved by Cabinet recently. It will form the basis for expanding crop production under irrigation. An amount of N$ 55 million was allocated to the Scheme and utilised to construct infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and houses for small-scale farmers at the Ndonga Linena Irrigation Project.

In the Hardap Region, the Hardap Research Station was converted to small-scale farmer’s plots for commercial crop production.

The implementation of the Green Scheme Programme is hampered by a shortage of engineers and other experts. Plans are in place to address this shortage by approaching our development cooperation partners to provide technical assistance. Government also has constructed silos in the grain producing regions at the cost of N$ 15 million. The aim is to encourage food production in the country, particularly in communal areas. Two silos with the capacity of 250 tons each were constructed at Okongo and the same number at Omuthiya. Four silos with the capacity of 1000 tons each were constructed at Katima Mulilo.

The strengthening of our agricultural sector remains a priority.

The Rural Water Supply Coverage Project received a budget of N$ 47 060 000. The project entails the supply of clean, piped water to rural communities living in areas where the groundwater quality is too poor, for domestic consumption.

The construction of Phase 3 of Onambutu Water Pipeline Network covering 215 km and 81 water points in the Ohangwena Region was completed



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in September 2008. Phase 4 of this project will cover a distance of 197 km and 94 water points. It will be completed in January 2010. The Tsandi South Project Phase 3, in the Otamanzi area, entails the construction of a 6 km power line, a water pump station, a 172 cubic meter reservoir, a 24 km bulk water pipeline and a 102 km rural water pipeline. This Project will be completed in June 2009. In June last year, 189 community water points in Otjozondjupa were transformed into 1651 private individual NamWater customer water points.

Under the Programme of Support to Dry-land Crop Production Government provided fertilisers, improved seeds and ploughing services to farmers at subsidised rates.

An amount of N$ 25 million was spent to implement this Programme.

The project was implemented in the six crop growing regions, namely Caprivi, Kavango, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto.

Floods and abnormal rains hampered the effective implementation of the Programme during the 2008/09 cropping season.

Quarantine farms at Omutambo-WoMawe, Oshivelo, Okongo, Mangetti, Kopano and Katima Mulilo have been upgraded through the project Animal Health Improvement and Marketing in the Northern Communal Areas (NCAs). The ultimate aim of this project is to achieve the Foot-and-Mouth Disease free status for the NCAs. In addition, Government has erected and maintains auction pins, thereby assisting farmers with the marketing of their livestock.

The Eastern Caprivi Region has experienced outbreaks of foot-and-month FMD since November 2007. The recent outbreak of FMD in the Kavango region caused disrupted international marketing of livestock from the NCAs. Cabinet directed the line Ministry to consult with local traditional authorities and councillors in Mukwe and Ndiyona constituencies to erect a temporary barrier in the area 50 as to restrict the passage of livestock to uninfected areas, and to facilitate the vaccination and tagging of animals in the affected constituencies.

Last year, Government provided N$100 million to enable Agribank to reduce interest rates on a wide range of products so as to ensure and maintain affordability, of these products by the farmers during the global economic crisis.

Interest rates on the National Agricultural Credit Program (NACP) were reduced to 4 percent

In addition, Agribank introduced the loan consolidation facility to provide further relief to farmers by consolidating several existing loans into one facility at weighted interest rates over a period of between 10 to 25 years. Also introduced during 2008 is the Ekwatho Meatco scheme to assist farmers increase marketing of weaners to the Meatco abattoirs. This will create more jobs instead and reduce the export of livestock on the hoof.

Since the inception of the scheme in November 2008, Agribank has granted N$ 14.9 million to AALS farmers for the raising of weaners.

Agribank also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Land and Resettlement to the amount of N$ 20 million annually to establish the post settlement support fund. The Fund is administered by Agribank to enable resettled farmers access affordable financing in order to improve and maximise agricultural productivity. The loans will be offered to resettled farmers at affordable interest rates of 4 percent in order to stimulate productivity and enhance the living standards of the resettled farmers and promote economic development of the nation.

Energy and PowerThe provision of reliable energy is crucial for our economy. It is for this reason that our Government is pursuing different option to secure a reliable supply of electricity for the country. The rural electrification programme remains an important priority.

More than N$350 million has been invested in electrifying rural communities in all regions of the country, since the programme started.

The hydro-power option is also of strategic importance for the country. The Namibia/Angola Permanent Joint Technical Commission has appointed the Cunene Consortium to conduct an updated Techno-Economic study on the Baynes Hydropower Option. The Consortium commenced with their work during September 2008 and submitted a Draft Phase 1 Report in January 2009. Phase 2 of the study has commenced and is expected to be completed by March 2010. A consultant has been appointed to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

We are pursuing all viable options to improve and expand local capacity for power generation. In this

regard, Government has engaged NamPower to investigate the possibility of developing a small-scale hydropower plant along the Orange River. Activities in this regard are at an advanced stage.

Contractors have been appointed to construct a 330KiloVolt High Voltage Direct Current Line from Katima Mulilo to Otjiwarongo.

The line will connect Namibia’s power grid to Zambia and Zimbabwe, making it possible for a more direct trade in electricity.

In order to boost capacity, NamPower is adding a fourth Unit at the Ruacana Hydro Power Plant. It will add 80MegaWatts more to the existing capacity of 249MegaWatts. This is another way we can help secure the power supply needs of our country in the long term.

The development expansion and maintenance of our physical infrastructure is on of the cornerstones of our national development strategy. Many projects were carried out to expand, repair and maintain our roads, bridges, electricity networks, communication lines and other vital infrastructure. This is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, we must continue to invest in our infrastructure in order to achieve our strategic development goals and secondly, we must act quickly to repair the damage caused by flood waters in northern and north eastern Namibia.

An amount of more than N$720 million was invested in road maintenance programmes during the period under review. This includes the resealing of paved roads, routine maintenance, special maintenance of bridges maintenance of road reserves and road signs maintenance, re-gravelling, re-compaction and lading of gravel roads.

On 14 October 2008, Cabinet had approved an amount of N$45 million from the Contingency Fund to be allocated to the repair of flood damaged road infrastructure in the northern and north eastern regions of the countries.

The roads being repaired as a result of the destruction by floods include the section of roads between Okalongo and Outapi, the road to Oneleiwa, the road between MR111 to Onaanda, the road between Ondangwa and Onakamwandi and the road between Ondangwa and Ohalushu.

state of the Nation Address Continues from page 17


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Continues from page 17state of the Nation AddressOther roads and bridges under the flood repair programme are the Uukwiyu-Omukandu road, Oshakati-Ompundja road, Oshakati-Endola road, Ondangwa-Onakamwandi road, MR111 – Onaanda road, Ogongo-Olutsiidhi road and the Ongwediva bridge.

The Regional Roads Master Plans for Oshikoto, Oshana, Omusati, Ohangwena and Kavango were revised to a tune of N$4,5 million and the revision took place during the period of October 2005-December 2008.

The feasibility study of Otavi-Tsumeb road started in June 2007 and it was completed in September 2008. The feasibility study was carried out to determine the viability of establishing of toll roads in Namibia.

The Government is studying the possibility of upgrading the Swakopmund-Henties Bay-Kamanjab road to bitumen standards.

Other ongoing studies that are soon to be completed during the year 2009 are: the Road Safety and Traffic Management Study on various roads in different regions of Namibia. The review of the Overload Control Strategy in Namibia; and the Weighbridge Construction Programme which includes the construction of a new weighbridge at Gobabis and the widening of Oshivelo weighbridge.

The upgrading to bitumen standard of 104 km road between Kamanjab and Omakange that started in January 2007 was completed and was officially inaugurated on 18 October 2008. This road was upgraded to a value of N$178 million.

The rehabilitation of the road between Okahandja and Karibib to the tune of N$304.6 million which started on February 2008 is progressing well. The upgrading to bitumen standard of the road between Rosh Pinah and the Sendelingsdrif Turn-off commenced in January 2008 and is expected to be completed in May 2009 at cost of N$8.4 million.

Work has also started on Phase 1 of the tarring of the road between Tsumeb and Katwitwi at the border with Angola at the cost of N$800 million.

The upgrading to surfaced trunk road standards of the road between Gobabis via Drimiopsis to Otjinene which is a section of the connection between the Trans-Kalahari and Trans-Caprivi Highways is in the design phase and the design is expected to be completed in June 2009. The construction work will start in September 2009

while the completion is envisaged in September 2012. The construction of this road is estimated to cost around N$600 million.

Other projects that are at the end of the pipeline, about to be realized are among others; The widening of the Divundu Bridge to the value of N$44 million which will start in April 2009 and will be completed in November 2009;

The design of the upgrading to bitumen standard of a 25 km section of the road between Oshikuku and Okalongo. The construction of this road is expected to commence in May 2009 and to be completed in April 2010 to the value of N$171 million. A the completion of this road a section will immediately be added to connect Okalongo to Omuvelo wa Kasamane at the Boarder with Angola;

The upgrading to bitumen standard of 83 km road between Omakange and Okahao to a value of N$345 million which is envisaged to commence in May 2009 is expected to complete in July 2011.

Labour-based road construction projects are also continuing in different pars of the country.

45 km of road between Ngoma-Muyako completed in June 2008 at a value of N$21 million;

The road from Kongola to the Zambian border (23 km) completed in September 2008 to a value of N$176 million;

The road from Katima Mulilo to Roano Qarantine facility (5 km) started in September 2007 and completed in August 2008; and

The ompundja-Eheke (50 km) gravel road was completed in March 2009.

Other labour works construction projects under the current financial year and financed by KfW and European Union are include:

The road between Ekamba and Onkani (55 km)The Okahao-Outapi road (45 km)MR92 Omagongati road (12 km)Todonro – Kamupupu road (15 km)Rupara-Muveve-Gcangcu road (15 km) andThe road to Mangetti west Quarantine Camp (45 km). All these projects will be completed before November 2009.

Government is seized with the reintegration of the veterans of the struggle for liberation into the socio-economic mainstream of the Namibian society. Government formulated laws, regulations and policies to achieve this goal. Towards, this end, Veterans Affairs, formulated the Veterans Act, Act No 2 of 2008 was passed.

Among other things the Act provides for the definition of who is a veteran and a dependant of a veteran; as well as the registration of veterans and dependant of veterans throughout the country. On the 10 July 2008, the Government launched the registration of veterans as stipulated in the Veterans Act, starting with mass registration from 21 July to 05 October 2008 in all constituencies.

The Veterans Board, which will be responsible for administering the Veterans Fund as stipulated in the Veterans Act and approval of veterans’ applications was inaugurated on 3rd September 2008.

The Veterans Act also makes provision for the economic projects for veterans. In doing so, job opportunities will be created for the veterans through projects such as brick making and construction. The State may also fund individual projects initiated by veterans themselves. These projects are to be funded on a grant basis at the amount not exceeding two hundred thousand Namibia dollars (N$200,000.00) per project. The Government will also continue with the construction of houses for identified veterans.

The Electoral Commission of Namibia has made significant progress with regards to preparations for the 2009 Presidential and

“Namibia must always be

a winning nation. Namibia

must continue to walk tall

among the community

of free nations. Namibia

must be a country of

equal opportunities to

every citizen. Namibia

must be a country of hope

and pride for the current

and future generations”.

20

state of the Nation Address Continues from page 19

National Assembly elections. The ECN has also initiated a comprehensive review of the Electoral Act, of 1992, resulting in formulation of a New Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The Honourable Members of Parliament deal with this piece of legislation expeditiously and pass the Bill in time for enactment into law before the forthcoming national elections. The Electoral Commission has recently completed a continuous voter’s registration exercise in the Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa and Khomas regions. The same exercise will be carried out in Oshana and Ohangwena regions during May 2009. All the other regions where covered during 2007 and 2008.

In the recent past, the ECN has successfully conducted a number of elections namely; the Rundu Rural West Constituency by-election, Eenhana Constituency by-election, Omuthiya Local Authority election as well as the Tobias Hainyeko Constituency by-election.

The nation must be rest assured that all persons who could not be registered during the continuous voters registration exercise will be captured during a comprehensive nationwide supplementary registration of voters exercise which will held be during September 2009.

While we have, in principle agreed to the introduction of Electronic Voting in the Namibian Electoral System and the Electoral Commission

has started with the ground for its implementation, I wish to inform the nation that Electronic Voting Machines will not be used in the forthcoming national elections.

Furthermore, the ECN will carry out a rigorous nationwide voter education and sensitization program in order to prepare the electorate for the forthcoming Presidential & National Assembly elections. This is extremely important in order to capture the new generation of voters especially the “born frees”, who will be participating in Presidential Elections for the first time.

We start the new Financial Year with renewed commitment to the achievement of our national priorities. The Honourable Members of this august House have been scrutinizing and debating the 2009/2010 Appropriation Bill for the past few weeks. I am pleased that overall, the Bill has received the support of the majority of the Honourable Members.

I am also pleased that, where warranted, genuine criticisms have been raised with the view to improve. The Appropriation Bill is a planning tool for the execution of Government plans over a specific period.

While I have highlighted some of the major intended plans of Government in the new Financial Year and beyond, the Appropriation Bill provides

the full details of Government expenditure in the next 12 months.

As we look back at the period under review, we are encouraged by the successes that have been recorded. At the same time, we are reminded of the improvements that we must make in order to serve more people, reach more communities and improve the living conditions of those Namibians who live in difficult conditions. The lessons of the past have spurred us to plan better and work smarter. We are confident that we will do better, achieve more and improve the performance of the public service in the new Financial Year and in the future.

Namibia must always be a winning nation. Namibia must continue to walk tall among the community of free nations. Namibia must be a country of equal opportunities to every citizen. Namibia must be a country of hope and pride for the current and future generations. Namibia must be a country where the vices of tribalism, regionalism, nepotism, corruption, racism, sexism and crime have no place. Our SWAPO PARTY Government is fully committed to achieving these objectives.

long live the Republic of namibia!

I thank you.

hard working health workers to be rewardedThe Minister of Health and Social Services (MoHSS), Dr. Richard Kamwi, is disappointed that it appears as some if of the staff of his ministry are not able to distinguish their roles as civil servants from other interests or political activism, in line with the provision of section 30 of the Public Service Act No 13 of 1995. He said that complaints have reached his office that some staff members are actively engaged in party politics in the hospital premises during working hours at the expense of the clients. He noted that although it is one’s right to belong to a political party of his/her choice, civil servants cannot actively participate in such activities during official hours.

Dr. Kamwi wants to see hard work among his staff. He strongly recommended the submission of monthly or quarterly management progress reports on the implementation of the Ministry’s

Strategic Plan, workshops and meetings attended by members of the management team to keep the Ministry informed.

The Strategic Plan and the scorecard will be the main tools through which the affairs of the Ministry will be managed. The Minister said he will initiate varied incentives to award those who go the extra mile to achieve their work plans in addition to the Ministerial Awards for Excellence to be introduced along the following categories: • category a: An annual Floating Trophy for

Well Managed/Run Hospital (e.g. Cleanliness, Friendliness and Responsiveness to the needs of clients). This trophy will be accompanied by a price of N$10 000;

• category B: Manager of the Year Award for outstanding individual performance to the tune of N$5 000;

• category c: The Nurse of the Year Award to the tune of N$4 000;

• category d: Supervisor of the Year Award to the tune of N$3 000 and

• A Positive Behaviour Certificate.

The office of the Minister is busy working out the specifics of the awards in collaboration with the Permanent Secretary and the Directorate responsible for Policy, Planning and Human Resources Development.

Dr. Kamwi urged staff and the management team of his Ministry to focus on implementation of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan and the improvement of the delivery of best health services to the Namibian population. “As professionals responsible for saving lives and making a difference to the most vulnerable groups, through the provision of health and social services, we must at all times maintain the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, accountability, integrity and impartiality to all our clients and visitors,” said Dr. Kamwi.

MIB Bulletin April 2009 - Namibian Government

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Transcript of MIB Bulletin April 2009 - Namibian Government