Government Information

Bulletin
Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Republic of Namibia February 2007

First war veteran gets house

Former Regional PLAN commander Matias Mbulunganga Ndakolo became the first war veteran to
benefit from the Government’s housing scheme for Former Robben Island Prisoners, War Veterans
and Internally Brutalised Persons when he received the keys to his new house at the Iilogati
Village in the Ohangwena region from President Hifikepunye Pohamba on 10 February 2007.

M
r. Ndakolo’s house is one of 48 houses
constructed by the National Housing
Enterprise for war veterans during the
current financial year with the N$5.8 million
that the Government availed in June 2006
for this purpose.
In an attempt to alleviate the housing plea
of former Robben Island Prisoners, War
Veterans and Internally Brutalised Persons,
the Government also undertook to avail N$2
million annually for the next five years for
ans among others to address
the plight of former prisoners
and freedom fighters.
President Pohamba also
called on everybody eligible
to benefit from the housing
project, to remain patient,
as the Government will
constantly monitor and review
their plight with a view to President Hifikepunye Pohamba, former Regional PLAN Commander, Mr.
Matias Ndakolo and his wife, Meekulu Aili
improve their living conditions. pictured in the sitting room of Mr. Ndakolo’s new house.

the construction of more houses for former

qualifying freedom fighters. The construction of Mr. Ndakolo’s house and Development, Regional Councils, local building
many others as part of this project, serves to contractors and other stakeholders made the
During the handing over of keys to his new demonstrate the Government’s appreciation completion of Mr. Ndakolo’s house possible.
house to Mr. Ndakolo, President Pohamba for the “sacrifices made by these gallant and He said good progress was also made with

denied allegations that the Government
has not done enough to address the plight
of former freedom fighters since independ-
ence. He reminded the audience of the
establishment of the Development Brigade
Corporation, the allocation of fishing rights,
the War Veterans Subvention Fund and the
provision of 1 375 cattle to 125 retired veter-
fearless fighters who stood firm during the
difficult and testing time of our liberation
war. They never wavered despite socio-
economic hardship that they have endured
for years,” the President said. President
Pohamba also said that good cooperation and
partnership between the Ministry of Regional
and Local Government, Housing and Rural
1
similar houses in other regions and expressed
his conviction that all 48 houses will be com-
pleted in line with the Cabinet decision before
the end of this financial year. The President
called on the beneficiaries of the project to
look after their properties, not to allow peo-
ple to vandalise it and to keep it clean and in
a good state of repair.

Five agreements NA to safeguard Public asked

In This Issue

signed with well-being of to name State

Chinese Namibians House Halls

Page 3 Page 5 Page 20
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

From the Desk of the Minister Contents

In the first edition of the Government Information Bulletin
we shared information with our readers on the Government’s
plans to provide 48 houses in the current financial year Five agreements signed with Chinese ……………………….. 3
to Former Robben Island Prisoners, War Veterans and
Internally Brutalised Persons. Cabinet took the decision to President proposes measures to curb accidents …………… 4
provide the houses and to avail a further N$2 million over
the next five years for this purpose at its 16th meeting held Horror evidence of road carnage ……………………………….. 4
on 15 August 2006.
NA must safeguard well-being of Namibians ……………….. 5

B arely six months after the Cabinet decision, we are able to share
the joy of the first beneficiary of one of the 48 houses, Mr. Matias
Ndakolo with our readers. Mr. Ndakolo became the owner of the first
GRN priorities reiterated ………………………………………….. 6

completed house in the project on 10 February 2007 when President School pass rate disappointing …………………………………. 6
Hifikepunye Pohamba officially handed the house over to him and
his wife. Housing improve livelihood of poorest ……………………... 7

It was a joyous occasion and many people from the Iilogati village in the
Ohangwena region and even further a field came to share in this colourful
event. The completion and handing over of the first house serves as a
clear demonstration that the Namibian Government is committed to
address the plight of war veterans and other displaced people.
Kavango gets fisheries institute ………………………………. 8
Civil servants must serve the public ……………………………. 9
Decentralisation gives access to Ombudsman …………….. 10

It also shows that much can be achieved if different role players New patrol aircraft due in March …………………………….. 10
cooperate to translate Cabinet decisions into reality. In this housing
Reform of Public Service underway ………………………… 11
project, the Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and
Rural Development, the National Housing Enterprise and building
Lüderitz railway line brings development ……………….... 12
contractors worked together to ensure the timely completion of the
project. The Ministry is convinced that all 48 houses will be completed
Food for work benefits many …………………………………… 12
before the end of this financial year on 31 March 2007.
Lower courts still in dire straits ………………………………. 13
At the Cabinet Review Meeting at the end of November 2006,
Cabinet members took stock of the implementation of Cabinet Fire gutted SADC Tribunal ……………………………………... 13
decisions and development projects. Since remarkable progress has
been achieved in many areas, we decided to dedicate this edition of Onambutu scheme brings water to thousands …………… 14
the Government Information Bulletin to development projects that
will make a tangible difference to the lives of many Namibians. Ministry forges ahead with new towns ……………………… 14

Except for the successful implementation of different housing Pohamba lauds foreign cooperation ……………………….…. 15
projects, several roads have been or are in the process of being
constructed, progress had been made with the Green Scheme Green scheme on course ……………………………………… 15
to ensure food security, the aquaculture and fresh water fishing
projects have taken off and water projects resulted in thousands of Road infrastructure receives attention …………………… 16
Namibians gaining access to safe, quality potable water.
Namibia will not allow mob rule ……………………………… 16
While being aware that much still needs to be done to address the
plight of many Namibians, due recognition should be given to what NBC works for country-wide coverage ………………………. 17
has been achieved with the limited resources available to improve
the livelihood of all Namibians. Namibia and SADC-EU negotiations on course …………… 18

2 Our next edition of the Government Information Bulletin will be
dedicated to information on the country’s National Symbols and the
main responsibilities of Government institutions and their contact
details. As a bonus, the centre spread will carry a full colour poster of
Cabinet. Make sure not to miss it!
Scenes from first house to war veteran ………………….…. 19
Public asked to name State House halls …………………….. 20
New Ministry is making progress ……………………………… 20

Government Information Bulletin: Publicising Government

The 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 Broadcasting. 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 also be accessed on the GRN
News button on the Government Internet site
at www.grnnet.gov.na
Private Bag 13344, Windhoek,
Telephone 061 x 2839111,
Fax 061 x 230170,
E-mail wdeetlefs@mib.gov.na.
The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural
communities through the Ministry’s different
regional offices.
The public and organisations are welcome
to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing costs
will be for the account of the subscriber.
Design DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi,
Windhoek.
Layout Solitaire Press, Windhoek.
and printing
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007
Five agreements signed with Chinese
A N$27.8 million interest free economic and technical cooperation agreement and a grant
agreement of the same value are two of the five agreements signed between the Namibian and
Chinese delegations during the state visit of Chinese President Hu Jintau to Namibia on 5 and 6
February 2007. All the agreements are aimed at strengthening China-Namibia cooperation.
T
he three other agreements that were
signed provide for the building of two
rural schools, a feasibility study on a youth
training centre at Berg Aukhas and a plan to
facilitate the visits of organised Chinese tour
groups to Namibia.
The Director General of the National Planning
Commission, Hon. Helmut Angula signed three
of the agreements on behalf of the Namibian
Government. These include the N$27.8
economic and technical grant agreement,
the agreement providing for the building of
two rural schools and the agreement for the
feasibility study on the Berg Aukhas Youth
Training Centre. Finance Minister Saara
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila signed the N$27.8
interest free loan agreement, while Environment
and Tourism Minister Willem Konjore signed
the tourism agreement on behalf of Namibia.
President Jintau and his delegation visited
Namibia as part of the Chinese President’s
visit to eight African states. During the visit,
President Jintau met with Namibian President
Hifikepunye Pohamba and the two leaders
agreed to continue to exchange high-level
visits to enhance political trust and actively
expand cooperation in economic, trade, culture,
education, health and other fields to the mutual
benefit of the two countries and peoples.
The two Heads of State agreed that there
was great potential for further growth in
China-Namibia economic cooperation and
trade. The leaders agreed to work together to
strengthen their cooperation in the areas of
mining, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing
and human resources development. The two
leaders also agreed to continue encouraging
their business people to increase contacts
and expand cooperation, while the two liberation struggle and for standing firmly
governments will create conditions to facilitate with Namibia in its current efforts towards
two-way trade and investment. China further economic and social development.
reaffirmed its readiness to assist Namibia and
to support the country’s efforts in promoting
economic growth and social progress.
President Pohamba also expressed Namibia’s
opposition to Taiwan’s independence and re-
affirmed Namibia’s support for a reunited China.
President Pohamba assured President Jintau
that Namibia would not entertain any official
Chinese President Hu Jintau and Namibian President
relations or contact with Taiwan. Instead, Hifikepunye Pohamba look on while their Ministers
sign a cooperation agreement.
Namibia supports all efforts by the Chinese
government to achieve national reunification.
The two leaders also undertook to strengthen
their cooperation in international affairs
and China praised Namibia for its efforts in
safeguarding regional peace and stability
and for advancing African integration. They,
furthermore, undertook to make joint efforts President Jintau and President Pohamba
at the state banquet.
to build on the success of the China-Africa
Summit held in Beijing in 2006 and to promote
the growth of the new China-Africa strategy
featuring political equality, mutual trust,
economic win-win cooperation and cultural
3
exchanges. Before his departure from Namibia,
President Jintau met with the Founding Father
of the Namibian Nation, Dr. Sam Nujoma to
exchange views on further strengthening the President Jintau and Dr. Sam Nujoma, Founding
Farther of the Namibian Nation met
relations between the Chinese Communist to discuss party issues.
Party and the SWAPO Party.
During the state banquet in honour of
President Jintau, President Pohamba said the
people of Namibia value the strong bonds
of friendship that exist between Namibia
and China. The Namibian people will always
remain grateful to the Government and people
Chinese awaiting the arrival of their President
of China for their solidarity and support to the at the Hosea Kutako International Airport
outside Windhoek.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

President proposes measures

to curb accidents
President Hifikepunye Pohamba proposed the possible introduction of a public fines demerit
system based on a point allocation as a possible measure to curb road accidents in Namibia.

O
pening the first Cabinet meeting of
2007 on 23 January, the President said
the carnage on Namibia’s roads during the
2006 festive season is regrettable.
He said the Government will have to
consider a public fines demerit system in an
attempt to address road accidents that result
in unspeakable horror.
According to the proposed system, points
will be allocated to drivers who may loose
the privilege of driving on public roads for a
specified time depending on the number of
offences committed.
Similarly, President Pohamba called for a
revision of regulations to strengthen the
fines for offences of drunken driving and
speeding.
“Currently, a drunken driver gets away with
an insignificant and non-deterring fine”, he
said.
According to the President it was also
for traffic offences, as it appears that
current fines are too lenient and do not
deter aggressive and negligent drivers on
Namibia’s roads.
Referring to the immense road carnage of the
festive season in which more than 80 road
users lost their lives, President Pohamba said
that what was meant to be a joyful period,
turned out in unspeakable horror.
“This heavy toll is indeed regrettable and
painful”, he said.
He called on his Cabinet to find ways of
creating greater awareness among Namibia’s
road users.
He said public authorities should be asking
whether they are doing enough to curb “this
horrendous road carnage”.
He said there was a need for existing
agencies, such as the Motor Vehicle Accident
Fund, the Roads Authority, the National
Road Safety Council and the Namibian Police
The President also called on the Ministries of
Works, Transport and Communication and
that of Safety and Security to assess the
availability of available human and technical
resources to strengthen the traffic police unit
so as to improve road safety in Namibia.
President Pohamba is of the opinion that
the country’s traffic officers must be well-
equipped to enforce the law effectively and
efficiently.
He also called on the relevant authorities to
ensure that driving schools in the country
are operating within the parameters of the
law and that their courses meet all the
necessary requirements.
He called on law enforcement agencies to
enforce the law without fear or favour.
He cautioned that those caught violating
traffic and transport regulations should not
expect any lenience.
President Pohamba appealed to drivers,

4 important to review the existing road to intensify their roles in addressing the cyclists and pedestrians alike to obey traffic
transport regulations and fines issued problem. regulations at all times.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007
NA must safeguard well-being of Namibians
The National Assembly must at all times safeguard the public interest and the well-being of
Namibia’s citizens, President Hifikepunye Pohamba said when he officiated at the opening of the
fifth session of the fourth Parliament in Windhoek on 13 February 2007.
T
he President cautioned Members of
Parliament not to allow inertia or lack of
will to slow the country’s progress. Instead,
all parties in Parliament should work together
to confront and defeat the challenges of
unemployment, poverty, social degradation,
crime and the scourge of the HIV/AIDS
pandemic. He called on parliamentarians
to work hard to promote the best interest
of the Namibian people so that Namibia can
stand as a beacon of hope, democracy and
tolerance. He reminded them that it was
in their hands to build a society in which
Namibia’s children will have the opportunity
to realise their dreams and aspirations.
The key to unlock the countless
possibilities of building a vibrant society
and a strong constitutional order are
in the hands of Namibians, he said. He
reminded parliamentarians that they have
been voted into office to articulate the
wishes and aspirations of the electorate.
Parliamentarians have been mandated to
serve the voting public by enacting laws
to enhance the well-being of the people.
Parliamentarians, therefore, have to
work together to ensure that the ship of
democracy does not sink, for if it does, all
will perish, he said.
Referring to the level of debate in Parliament,
the President said elected representatives
are expected to advance mature and well-
considered arguments to enhance the quality
of debate in the Parliamentary chambers.
He applauded the installation of a lift in
the National Assembly, remarking that
this demonstrated a positive response to
appeals by people with disabilities to make
Parliament more accessible to them. President
Pohamba also called for efforts to increase financial strain on family, friends and the
the representation of women in Parliament. government and lawmakers will have to
Although female representation in the National offer suggestions to end that when they
Assembly increased from 6% immediately consider the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund
after independence to 26 % currently, it still Bill, the President said.
falls short of the desired 50/50 representation.
In the National Council, the representation The Vocational Education and Training Bill
increased from 1% in 1992 to 26% currently. should also be approached with seriousness,
because it must help to address the country’s
President Pohamba also drew the attention high level of unemployment among the youth.
of parliamentarians to the importance of the
Bills that will serve before them during the Appropriate mechanisms must be put in
current session of Parliament. place to ensure that Namibia has skilful
and productive citizens who possess the
The tense labour relations in the country knowledge, know-how and competencies to
and industrial disputes that negatively affect operate in the modern economy.
productivity and economic growth are matters
of concern to Government. The President, He also called on Parliamentarians to carefully
therefore, called on lawmakers to carefully debate consider the Electricity Bill in the light of the
and consider the Labour Bill once it is tabled. impending power supply crisis facing Namibia
and the SADC region.
The same holds true for the Value Added
Tax Amendment Bill, since taxes are an He called on them to act swift to cushion the
important source of government revenue effects of the reduced power generation ca-
and there should be no room for tax pacity in the region and to support efforts to
evasion by individuals or corporations. The harness other sources of renewable energy.
Government
needs the
tax revenue
5
to be able to
implement
projects for the
socio-economic
upliftment of
the Namibian
people, he
said.
The carnage
on Namibia’s
roads puts
emotional and National Council Chair Hon, Asser Kapere, President Hifikepunye Pohamba and National As-
sembly Speaker, Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab before the opening of Parliament.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Government priorities reiterated

The allocation of resources to the Green Scheme, the rapidly growing tourism sector, the
expansion of feeder roads into rural areas, the construction of grain storage facilities and the
establishment of more skills training and skills upgrading centres for the Namibia youth were
reiterated as top Government priorities when President Hifekepunye Pohamba opened the first
2007 Cabinet meeting on 23 January 2007.

B
etter coordination of government by a clear understanding of the development therefore, redouble its efforts to expand
activities goes hand in hand with the needs of the country as reflected in the election training opportunities and enlarging the
Government’s priorities. The President, manifesto of the ruling party and the country’s pool of experts and professionals who can
therefore, called on Cabinet members to national development plans and programmes. implement government programmes and
promote the culture of coordination within take Namibia to greater heights.
their institutions, as well as among various Referring to the Cabinet Review Meeting in
public sector agencies. Coordination should late November 2006, President Pohamba He also stressed the need for Government
include regional and local authorities, reminded his Cabinet that capacity building institutions to continuous review their
traditional and community leaders, civil and human resource development, economic priorities and to pursue those policies that
society and the private sector. growth and intra-government coordination will have the most tangible impact on the
featured strongly as issues of national live of Namibians. This is necessary because
At the core of the Government’s response importance to take Namibia forward on its of the financial constraints facing the
to the challenges facing it, is the struggle development path. The Government must, Government, he said.
against poverty and underdevelopment.
According to President Pohamba this calls
for the need to promote economic growth
and boost its ability to create jobs for the
country’s unemployed citizens, especially
youth and women.

The aim of the Government should be to

achieve tangible results with the improvement
of the quality of life of the Namibian people. To Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Libertina Amathila, President Hifikepunye Pohamba and
Secretary to Cabinet, Mr. Frans Kapofi at the first Cabinet meeting for 2007.
achieve this, the Government must be driven

6
School pass rate disappointing
Although the enrolment of learners at Namibian schools went well at the start of the new school
year, President Hifikepunye Pohamba described the disappointing pass rate of below 50%
among Grade 10 and 12 learners as embarrassing statistics.

“W
e cannot afford such
performance. We must act swiftly
to arrest this disturbing trend immediately and
aim for a pass rate of at least 90% in coming
years,” President Pohamba said at the first
2007 Cabinet meeting on 23 January 2007.
He called on the Ministry of Education and
poor other stakeholders in education to make
proposals and suggest ideas to reverse the
negative pass rate trend. He urged that
Namibian children must be prepared for the
workplace in a competitive world and not
to sit idle on street corners. The President
also requested the Minister of Education to
develop an entrepreneurial orientation of
Namibian learners at the Grade 10 level.
“From Grades 11 to 12, students should
already be able to make career choices and to
pursue such choices at tertiary level”, he said.
While acknowledging that many rural schools
face tremendous resource constraints,
President Pohamba commended some rural
schools that have achieved good pass rates.

Continue on page 7
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Housing improves livelihood of poorest

The livelihood of the poorest segment of society has improved significantly during 2006 with
the construction of several houses under the National Housing Programme of the Ministry of
Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development.

R
egional and Local Government, Housing
and Rural Development Minister John
Pandeni told the Cabinet Review Meeting late
last year that 402 houses were completed at
a cost of N$11.942 million under the Urban/
Rural Housing Loan Sub-programme, while
100 houses had been completed under the
Social Housing Sub-programme at a cost of
N$4 million.
The houses were constructed in the Kunene,
Omusati, Oshana, Erongo, Khomas, Hardap
and Karas regions. A total of 119 houses
were constructed in Kamanjab, Opuwo,
Okangwati and Khorixas in the Kunene
region, while eight houses were constructed
at Outapi in the Omusati region.
A total of 49 houses were constructed in
Ondangwa in the Oshana region, 89 houses
were built in Henties Bay in the Erongo
region and the Khomas region benefited
from the construction of 64 houses.
A total of 107 houses were built in
Aranos, Mariental, Rehoboth and Gibeon
in the Hardap region and 47 houses
were constructed in Bethanie, Koes and
Berseba in the Karas region. Under the
Ministry’s Single Quarters Transformation
Sub-programme, 100 houses are in the
process of construction in Swakopmund
in the Erongo region, while 250 plots have
been serviced in Otavi in the Otjozondjupa
region for the construction of 250
houses. The cost for the Single Quarters
Transformation Sub-programme amounts
to N$6 million during the 2006/2007
financial year.
While the Informal Settlement Upgrading Sub-
programme does not involve the construction
of houses, it does contribute to the provision
of basic urban services to informal settle-
ment areas. During the first eight months
of 2006, 10 VIP toilets were constructed at
Sesfontein in the Kunene region, while 434
plots have been serviced in Okangwati in the
same region. At Oshivello in the Oshikoto
region, communal facilities, including water,
electricity and sewerage infrastructure were
provided to 2 873 beneficiaries.
During January to August 2006, the
National Housing Enterprise completed
the construction of 183 houses, 103 in
Goreangob and 10 in Okuryangava in
the Khomas region and 70 houses in
Kuisebmond in the Erongo region at a cost
of N$15.755 million.
According to Minister Pandeni, the home
owners are the real beneficiaries of his
Ministry’s housing programme, since it
generally improve the livelihood for the
poorest segment of society. The programmes
that are implemented by Regional Councils
and local authorities also benefit contractors
and labourers in the short term.
Housing is a basic need of all human beings.

School pass rate disappointing 7

Continued from page 6

He said the education authorities have to
establish how some rural schools manage to
perform well despite the constraints they are
facing. If some rural schools perform well,
others operating under similar conditions
should follow suit, he said.
President Pohamba stressed the need for
education authorities to act immediately to
reverse the unacceptable trend. The President
said he was encouraged by the steps that
have been taken to re-integrate pre-primary
education into the public education system when they start Grade 1. “This is of utmost
and the fact that curriculum development for importance because pre-primary education
pre-primary education has already started. forms the strong foundation upon which
Referring to the traditional Africa wisdom our education system can stand, grow and
that it takes a village to raise a child, he produce the desired outcomes”, he said.
cautioned that pre-primary education require
the involvement of the Government, as well
as the community as a whole. He called on
all stakeholders to contribute towards the
successful implementation of the envisaged
pre-primary education curriculum so that all
Namibian children can be ready for schooling
Learners at a school athletics meeting.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Kavango gets fisheries institute

Communities in the Kavango and Caprivi regions who are engaged in aquaculture and inland
fisheries stand to benefit once the N$30 million Inland Fisheries Institute at Kamutjonga in the
Kavango region is completed.

A
ccording to information that Fisheries
and Marine Resources Minister Dr.
Abraham Iyambo shared with colleagues
at the November 2006 Cabinet Review
Meeting, the first phase of the project had
been completed.
The second phase of the Kamutjonga Inland
Fisheries Institute has started and it is due
for completion in the 2008/2009 financial
year. During the second phase additional
houses, a road, fences and dormitories will
be constructed.
Once completed, the Institute will do scientific
research on fresh water fisheries and provide
training for fish farmers in the Kavango and
Caprivi regions. The Institute will also produce
fingerlings for distribution to farmers in the
two regions.
According to Dr. Iyambo, the Inland Fisheries
Institute will promote the collection of data
for research and analysis of socio-economic
purposes, while it will also provide training for
technical personnel and fish farmers in the two
regions.
8 During phase one of the project, 15 Namibians
were temporary employed on the project and it
is estimated that the Ministry will permanently
employ 25 staff members once the Institute is
operational.
Employment creation and enhanced fish
production, which will maximise fish supply to
the regional markets are two of the long term
economic benefits of the Institute.
According to Dr. Iyambo, it will take between
10 to 15 years after completion of the project
to realise its full benefits. The project is in line
with the Government’s priorities as contained
in the Second National Development Plan in
that it will promote the sustainable use of
inland fish for household food security.
The project will, furthermore, also contribute
to the development of sustainable aquaculture
industries, while at the same time empowering
local communities and promoting local natural
resources development.
Work on the N$9.5 million aquaculture
project at the Olushandja Dam and at
Onavivi in the Oshana region is also
progressing well. The project consists
of the Epalela fish farm project near
Olushandja and the Inland Aquaculture
Centre at Onavivi. Tilapia and catfish are
produced for local and regional markets
at the Epalela fish farm, while the Inland
Aquaculture Centre carries out research
on fresh water fisheries and provide
training to Ministerial staff and the
communities.
Once operational, the Centre will also
produce fingerlings for distribution to farmers
in the northern regions. The Onavivi Centre
was established with Spanish assistance
and good progress is being made with the
production of fingerlings and fish.
Phase two of the project will be completed
during the 2007/2008 financial year with the
construction of houses and dormitories. Two
Cuban experts are assisting the Namibian
government with the establishment of this
aquaculture project.
The fish farms that were established at
Mpungu, Shipapu, Wambambangandu
and Karovo in the Kavango region and at
Litapi, Likunganelo and Kalimbeza in the
Caprivi region were affected by floods in the
2006/2007 financial year. The outcome of a
feasibility study is being awaited to establish
these farms on a sustainable basis in the two
regions.

In the left photo two men are busy catching freshwater fish and in the right hand photo, two men are proudly displaying their catch that will make a nutritious meal.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007
Civil servants must serve the public
Every day that the state machinery does not make progress to provide better living conditions
to Namibia’s people, is a day too long, President Hifikepunye Pohamba remarked when he met
senior civil servants on 8 February 2007.
“T
he challenges we face call for speedy
service delivery and the abolition
of practices that do not produce desired
results”, the President said.
Civil servants are the backbone of the
implementation of government policies
and senior civil servants must, therefore,
continue to inculcate a sense of purpose,
urgency and dedication across the public
service, he said. President Pohamba
again reiterated that public service is
about serving the public, who are the tax
payers.
It is thus necessary for civil servants to carry
out their responsibilities with dedication
and a clear sense of purpose to enable the
Government to provide critical services,
such as health and education to the entire
nation.
The President called on the civil service
to adjust the administrative machinery to
ensure that the relationship between citizens
and officials is based on respect, honesty
and the appreciation of the legitimate
expectations of what citizens expect from
civil servants.
Citizens must be empowered to insist that
services are rendered in an accountable and
transparent manner, he said. To improve
service delivery, the civil service must
be bold enough to identify practices and
structures that hamper progress and to
address shortcomings immediately.
Similarly, mechanisms for intra-government
coordination through timely and regular
information sharing must be improved and
strengthened.
According to President Pohamba, a capable
government creates a conducive environment
for investment, sustained socio-economic
growth and development, while it also facilitates
and ensures effective and good governance at all
levels, by combating corruption, incompetence
and wastage. Good governance is about serving
the people and giving them tangible present
and future benefits in education, health, social
security, sanitation, potable water, electricity
and housing.
“Our citizens expect only the highest quality of
service from the public service, because they
invest in the public service through the taxes
that they pay. If the returns on their investment
do not translated into quality service delivery,
they will make their voices known.
The public service must demonstrate a
complete dedication to a strong work ethic and
a recognition that every human being deserves
courtesy and consideration”, the President
cautioned. He also called for excellence, a
constant search for perfection and value-for-
money services to ensure that the management
of human, material, financial and information
Ethiopian groups welcomed President Hifikepunye Pohamba at the airport in Addis Ababa. The President
attended the African Union Summit in the Ethiopian capital on 28 January 2007.
resources meet the increasingly complex
challenges of development and nation-building.
The focus of the civil service must be
people centred, while rules, procedures and
regulations must only be applied to promote
efficiency and consistency in the work of
civil servants. According to the President,
it is time that a new mode of service
delivery and operation procedures should
be considered in the light of the complex
challenges faced by the Government.
“As public service managers, your principal
objective should be to create a public service
that is citizen-oriented rather than self-
serving; innovative rather than rule-bound,
capable of forging constructive partnerships
with outside groups rather than being insular;
professionally competent rather than being
patronage or corruption ridden”, he said.
He called on them to be result-oriented
and time and cost conscious, not
allowing hierarchy, protocol or the cynical
interpretation and application of rules to
slow down progress.
9
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Decentralisation gives access to Ombudsman

The opening of representative Ombudsman offices in Keetmanshoop in the South and Oshakati
in the North has allowed more than 1000 Namibians from remote areas to lodge complaints
of maladministration, corruption and the violation of human rights with the Office of the
Ombudsman between January and October 2006.

W
ith the opening of the two regional Since January 2006, permanent
offices, the Office of the Ombudsman investigators have been dispatched to the
honoured the Government’s decentralisation offices in Keetmanshoop and Oshakati. The
policy and its own undertaking to make the investigator in Keetmanshoop also regularly
services of the Ombudsman accessible to as visits several smaller places, such as Aroab,
many citizens as possible. Koes, Tses, Maltahohe, Mariental, Gochas,
Stampriet, Aranos, Lüderitz, Aus, Bethanie
The Office of the Ombudsman is entrusted and Karasburg, as well as prisons in the
to receive, investigate and resolve south.
complaints from the public about corruption,
maladministration and the violation of The investigator in Oshakati also brings the
human rights, the environment and national services of the Office of the Ombudsman
resources. to places like Rundu, Uutapi, Okahao,
Ondangwa, Oluno, Eenhana, Tsumeb and
Briefing the Cabinet Review Meeting Grootfontein and prisons in the north.
about the work of the Office of the
Ombudsman late last year, Ms. Pendukeni The opening of the Oshakati office has
Iivula-Ithana, Minister of Justice and resulted in 238 people from the northern
the Attorney General said before regions submitting their complaints to the
decentralisation, investigators from Office of the Ombudsman. In the South,
Windhoek visited the regional offices 212 people contacted the Keetmanshoop
regularly. This situation was not ideal, regional office with complaints.
as it was expensive while also denying
the rural population with constant access According to Ms. Iivula-Ithana, the opening
to representatives from the Office of the of the offices in Keetmanshoop and Oshakati
Ombudsman. empowered citizens in the south and north to
lodge their complaints with the Ombudsman.
Without these offices, most of them would
never have been in a position to bring their
complaints to the Ombudsman, since they
are either illiterate or lack resources to
pay for telephone calls, faxes or postage
stamps.
Since the two regional offices are not able to
cover the whole country, investigators from
the Ombudsman head office in Windhoek
undertook complaint intake clinics to places
such as Gobabis, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay,
Arandis, Usakos, Karibib, Omaruru, Katima
Mulilo, Khorixas, Opuwo, Tsumkwe, as well
as prisons in other areas.
Intake clinics between January to October
2006, resulted in 568 complains submitted
to the Office of the Ombudsman. Ms. Iivula-
Ithana stated that public institutions naturally
strive for excellence if they know the
watchdog is active throughout the country.
This helps to achieve good governance,
while also giving local and foreign investors
confidence to invest in the country.

New patrol aircraft due in March

10

A new fisheries patrol aircraft that will assist the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources to
combat illegal fishing in Namibia’s exclusive economic zone, is expected to be delivered in the
country in March 2007.

C
onstruction on the N$38.634 million
aircraft started during the 2003/2004
financial year in France and delivery was
initially scheduled for the 2004/2005 financial
year. The terror attacks on the Twin Towers
in New York in the United States of America
however prevented the service provider to
deliver the aircraft as per the agreements. The
construction of a new patrol aircraft became
necessary since the current patrol aircraft is
approaching the end of its expected life span.
As is the case with the current patrol aircraft,
the new aircraft will also be stationed at Arandis
in the Erongo region. With the new aircraft, the
Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources will
be able to combat illegal fishing in Namibian
waters, which will allow the fish stock to grow
to its expected level of biomass.
This is in line with the provisions in the Second
National Development Plan that call for the
sustainable use of the country’s marine
resources.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Reform of Public Service underway

The roll-out of the Public Service Performance Management System aimed at changing Namibia’s
public service into a performing organisation and major agent to bring about lasting growth and
prosperity to the country, may take between eight and 12 years.

B
riefing the Cabinet Review Meeting
late last year on the establishment of a
performance-oriented public service, Prime
Minister Nahas Angula said the Performance
Management System, together with other
public service reform initiatives will result
in quality service delivery, high levels of
customer satisfaction, improved efficiency
and effectiveness and ultimately contribute to
the achievement of Vision 2030 in Namibia.

Since organisational culture change is a critical

success factor towards a service-oriented
public service, a slower and more substantive
roll-out of the Performance Management
System is being encouraged to ensure lasting
change, the Prime Minister said.

Together with the Performance Management
System (PMS), other public service reform
initiatives, such as the establishment of the
Namibia Institute for Public Administration
Management (NIPAM), job evaluation and
grading, E-Governance and the Human
Resources Management Information System are
being introduced to ensure the establishment of
a performance-oriented public service.
According to the Prime Minister, the Performance
Management System is ready for submission to
the Cabinet Committee on the Public Service for
approval early in 2007 so that it can become a
formal Government policy.
An Executive Committee, consisting
of selected Permanent Secretaries,
representatives from women’s organisations,
recognised trade unions and the Bank of
Namibia, and chaired by the Secretary to
Cabinet, Mr. Frans Kapofi, was already
established in 2006 to oversee the roll-out of
the PMS across all government institutions.
Secretary to Cabinet, Mr. Frans Kapofi and Prime Minister Nahas Angula are at the heart of reform in the Public Service.
The PMS has already been deployed in the
Ministry of Labour and Social Services and it
is earmarked for deployment in the Ministry
of Education and the Ministry of Lands and
Resettlement in February 2007. According to
the Prime Minister it is possible that the roll-
out of the PMS is completed in the Ministries
of Labour and Social Welfare and Lands and
Resettlement by March 2008, while it may
take two years longer to roll it out in the
bigger Ministry of Education.
Although the roll out of PMS is estimated to take
a minimum of four years, the Prime Minister
said that benchmarking has shown that rolling
out major reform initiatives, like entrenching
the Performance Management System, may
take between eight to 12 years. A critical
success factor is that Permanent Secretaries
must be committed to the process.
With regard to NIPAM, the Prime Minister
indicated that a draft act has been compiled
as a discussion document, while an amount
of N$45 million is available on the capital
budget until 2009 for the construction of
the institute. The job evaluation and grading
is on course, but insufficient funds and the
diverse interest of stakeholders are delaying
the process. It is, however, trusted that it
will be in place towards the end of 2008.
E-Government still lacks funding and
11
implementation mechanisms, but the Office
of the Prime Minister, in cooperation with the
World Bank will conduct a needs assessment
to strengthen the implementation programme.
Tender documents are being finalised for the
purchasing of a new computerised system
for the Human Resources Management
Information System. The development of an
electronic information system is necessary to
optimise performance in the public service.
The absence of such a performance tracking
system will make analysis, accountability and
comparison cumbersome if not impossible.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Lüderitz railway line brings development

The upgrading and rehabilitation of the Aus-Lüderitz railway line together with the Lüderitz
harbour that was upgraded in 1998 will lead to the development of the southern part of Namibia.
This project will also serve the local inhabitants, the fishing and mining industry and agricultural
projects in the Karas region.

B
riefing Cabinet on its Ministry’s programmes
at the Cabinet Review Meeting late
in November 2007, Works, Transport and
Communications Minister, Joël Kaapanda said
the Skorpion Zink mine was already exporting
through the Lüderitz harbour and plans are
underway to distribute petroleum products
for the southern regions of Namibia through
Lüderitz and the upgraded rail link.
According to Minister Kaapanda, South African
mining groups and fruit producers have also
indicated that they would want to make use
of the Lüdertiz harbour as a point of export.
This would produce revenue for Namibia.
The upgrading and rehabilitation of the
139.5 kilometers of railway line from the
Aus station to the Lüderitz station runs for
its entire length through the Namib Desert.
The contract for this N$540 million job was
awarded to the Roads Contractor Company
who has to do the earthworks embankment,
build a station at Lüderitz, supply the ballast
stone and lay the tracks, as well as build
road over rail bridges and lay drainage
culverts. The track work is being upgraded
from 11.5 tonne axle load to accommodate
18.5 tonnes to allow the line to carry a
heavier load.
The railway line project is financed by
the Namibian Government and is due for
completion in the 2009/2010 financial year.
Due to the harsh climate and raging winds
in the desert, it is impractical to use people
to do labour-based work on the railway line.
Mechanical equipment is mainly use in the
construction, but approximately 600 people
are employed at Aus and Lüderitz.
Once the railway line is operational, it is
expected that employment opportunities
will be created due to cargo and passenger
trains servicing the route. Tourism and
other business ventures may also create
employment opportunities.
It is also hoped that the upgrading and
rehabilitation of the Aus-Lüderitz railway
line, together with the upgraded Lüderitz
harbour will promote interregional trade
with neighbouring SADC countries. The
lifespan and cost of maintenance of roads
in the south will also be prolonged if bulk
goods and passengers are transported by
train instead of on the roads.

Food for work benefits many

A total of 5 035 Namibians benefited from 147 projects supported by the Food for Work
programme of the Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development
12 between 1 January and 31 August 2006.

D
uring the same period, 271 people
benefited from 15 projects that were
supported by the Food and Cash for Work
programme of the Ministry, according to
information given to the Cabinet Review
Meeting late last year by Minister John Pandeni.
The two programmes benefited both males
and females in Namibia’s 13 regions. A
total of 2 753 males and 2 553 females in
all regions were beneficiaries of the Food
for Work and the Food and Cash for Work
programme in the first eight months of 2006.
According to Minister Pandeni, a total of 135
people from six regions benefited from the
Food Security and Nutrition - Empowerment
of the San Community for Household Food
Security Programme. The beneficiaries
were from Omega/Chetto in West Caprivi,
Okongo/Omauni in Ohangwena, Tsinsabis
in Oshikoto, Omega/Buffalo in Kavango,
Tsumkwe/Mkata in Otjozondjupa and Eiseb/
Epukiro in Omaheke.
The projects implemented under the Food
for Work programme are community based
projects that are providing direct food aid
as a safety net system for the poor able-
bodied people in targeted communities in
productive self-help activities.
The Food Security and Nutrition programme
aimed at San communities is creating
temporary employment through the building
of basic rural infrastructure for the San. These
activities provide San communities with much-
needed technical skills and know-how for
similar projects in the future, thus preparing
them for the job market or self-employment.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Lower courts still in dire straits

The appointment of seven temporary magistrates in May 2006 to assist with the backlog of cases
in Namibia’s lower courts did not have the desired results. In nine of the 25 court districts, the
backlog is now even bigger than what it was on 31 March 2006.

T
he problems in lower courts
aggravated by the fact that none of
the 30 newly created magistrate posts in
the Ministry of Justice are funded and can,
therefore, not be used until such time that
they are fully funded.
Minister of Justice and the Attorney General
Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana painted a bleak
picture about the state of lower courts
and the backlog of cases in the country at
the Cabinet Review Meeting held late in
November 2006.
Ms. Iivula-Ithana said although
were secured for the appointment of
two temporary magistrates in Windhoek,
and one temporary magistrate each in
Keetmanshoop, Opuwo, Okahao, Oshakati
and Rundu, the number of outstanding
cases was only slightly reduced in 14 court
districts, while the backlog increased in nine
districts. While the backlog of cases is down
with 50% in the Okahandja and Omaruru
districts and 40% down in the Karasburg
and Lüderitz districs, the backlog increased
in Swakopmund and Keetmanshoop. In
are Outapi the backlog is 15% up in spite of
the deployment of a temporary magistrate
to that district.
This state of affairs is attributed to the fact that
temporary magistrates could not concentrate
on the backlog of cases, as the stations
they serve have too many new cases, said
Ms. Iivula-Ithana. In some cases, temporary
magistrates serve in vacant permanent
positions, which require that they attend to all
duties of the offices, as well as new cases.
During the period November 2005 to October
funds 2006 a total number of 158 164 cases were
registered with lower courts in the country.
A total of 5 877 cases were finalised, while 7
627 cases were disposed of after admission
of guilt. Court personnel spent 3225.41 hours
in court and 953.50 hours on administrative
and quasi-judicial functions.
Besides court hearings, magistrates are also
expected to render many additional duties,
such as domestic violence applications,
applications for liquor or shebeen licences
and maintenance enquiries.
According to Ms. Iivula-Ithana, crime is
increasing, while the availability of both human
and capital resources seems to be declining.
The situation is aggravated by the reluctance
of young graduates to take up magisterial
posts outside Windhoek, while others accept
offers from parastatals and the private
sector that offer better salaries than the
government.
Although the Ministry of Justice acquired
15 additional recording machines and five
transcribers to type mechanically recorded
records, most typists are not trained to use
computers and transcribers effectively.
English language skills also pose a problem,
since the typists are unable to listen to
recordings and simultaneously type the
English words correctly.
Budgetary constrains are also contributing to
the fact that some services are not receiving
the necessary attention, while magistrates’
training is also neglected because of the
shortage of funds.

Fire gutted SADC Tribunal 13

A fire that broke out at about 03h00 on 19 January 2007 in the historic SADC Tribunal or Turnhalle Building destroyed the interior of the building,
leaving only the outside walls standing. Damage to the building and furniture runs into millions of dollars.

Onambutu scheme brings water to thousands
Approximately 93 000 people will have access to safe, quality potable water upon the completion
of the Onambutu Water Supply Scheme that starts in the Oshana region and cuts through the
Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions.
T
he water supply scheme is being done
in stages and will cost N$57 million
upon completion.
In the phase one stage of the project, 36.4
km bulk pipeline, a 600 m³ reservoir and the
construction of a booster pump station at Os-
haango in the Ohangwena region was com-
pleted. The upgrading of the pump station at
Iindangungu in the Oshikoto region was also
completed. A 90 km bulk pipeline and me-
chanical and engineering works at Oshaango
in the Ohangwena region has been completed
as part of phase two of the Onambutu water
supply scheme. Communities along the pipe-
line, regional councillors, traditional leaders,
NamWater and local water committees were
involved throughout the project.
Besides the provision of safe, quality potable
Ministry forges ahead with new towns
A resistance by some stakeholders to constructively cooperate with the Government in the
implementation of national policies is hampering the proclamation of new towns in Namibia.
14
A
ccording to Regional and Local Government,
Housing and Rural Development Minister,
John Pandeni, the proclamation of new towns
in Namibia is being delayed because traditional
leaders are not always supportive, while there
is also resistance to relinquish land for urban
development.
Briefing the Cabinet Review Meeting at the
end of 2006 about his Ministry’s flagship
programmes, Minister Pandeni said that his
Ministry would like to see at least two towns
proclaimed in every region. However, to date
only Okahao in the Omusati region and Helao
Nafidi in the Oghangwena region have been
Government Information Bulletin February 2007
water to approximately 93 000 people in the
Oshana, Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions,
about 1 000 rural community members were
employed to assist with the implementation of
the project and N$1 896 000 has been paid as
wages to those community members. Briefing
the Cabinet Review Meeting late in November
on progress with the projects of the Ministry
of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, Dr. Nickey
Iyambo said community members will be
encouraged to pay for their water according
to prescribed NamWater tariffs, while rural
water extension technicians will assist the
communities to maintain the infrastructure.
Another water supply scheme is the Tsandi
South Scheme in the Omusati region that will
bring safe, potable water to 57 500 people in
this northern region.
At a cost of N$34 million, the two phases of
newly proclaimed. The Regional and Local
Government, Housing and Rural Development
Ministry wants to see the settlement areas of
Otjinene in the Omaheke region, Rosh Pina,
Oranjemund and Aussenkjer in the Karas
region, Omuthiya in the Oshikoto region, Bukalo
in the Caprivi region, as well as Nkurenkuru and
Divundu in the Kavango region proclaimed
as new towns over the next three financial
years. Work on this will start already during the
2007/2008 financial year and will hopefully be
concluded during the 2009/2010 financial year,
the Minister said. Minister Pandeni said although
the proclamation of new towns will contribute
to improved socio-economic living conditions
this project saw the completion of 39 km of
bulk and 117 km of rural pipeline with 71
water points that include clinics, schools and
household and 4 livestock water points in
phase one. In phase two, 2 direct off-takes
were done from new and existing bulk pipe-
lines, while 183 km rural pipelines and 85
new water points inclusive of clinics, schools
and households were completed.
A further 125 existing communal and institu-
tional water points have been rehabilitated.
The construction of the Tsandi South Scheme
resulted in the employment of approximately
1000 community members who earned N$1
635 000 in wages for their work. As with the
Onambutu Scheme, community members will
be encouraged to pay for their water, while
rural water extension technicians will assist the
communities to maintain the infrastructure.
of people, address the skewed socio-economic
development across the country and improve
the investment environment, the Ministry still
faces challenges with this programme. The
challenges include opposition from traditional
leaders towards the proclamation of new
towns, while the problem is exacerbated by the
absence of a legal framework to accommodate
the implementation of a Cabinet decision and a
national policy. The Ministry is also experiencing
resistance from communities to relinquish
land for urban development. To address
the challenges, his Ministry plans to amend
legislation to support the implementation of
government policies and priorities.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007
Pohamba lauds foreign cooperation
President Hifikepunye Pohamba lauds the excellent relations and cooperation between Namibia
and foreign missions and international organisations in Namibia when he conveyed his New Year
greetings to the diplomatic corps on 1 February 2007.
N
amibia faces many formidable
challenges, such a poverty,
unemployment, the HIV/AIDS pandemic and
other difficulties. Therefore, it was important
for the country to work closely with its friends
and development partners to address these
challenges, President Pohamba said.
The President thanked the diplomatic corps
for its tireless efforts in strengthening
relations between their respective countries
and Namibia. He also expressed the wish that
the New Year will bring peace, social justice,
development and prosperity to the world.
Referring to the general elections in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo, President
Pohamba praised the people of the DRC for the
successful conclusion of the general elections,
which gave President Joseph Kabila the mandate
to lead that country to peace, reconciliation
and reconstruction. He also commended the
positive role of the United Nations, the African
Union, the Southern African Development
Community (SADC) and the European
Union in helping the people of the DRC.
President Pohamba assured the diplomatic
corps that Namibia attaches great importance
to the global development agenda. He,
however, expressed concern about the lack
of progress in the implementation of the
Millennium Development Goals. He called
on all UN member states to work together in
finding effective solutions to the fight against
poverty, hunger, disease and ignorance.
He also pledged Namibia’s continued support
to reform the UN system, especially the
expansion and democratisation of the Security
Council. At the same time, Namibia will continue
to support UN efforts to maintain peace
and security around the world. He also paid
tribute to the sterling leadership of the former
Secretary General of the UN, Kofi Annan and
said the country was looking forward to working
closely with the new Secretary General, Ban Ki-
Moon and his Deputy, Dr. Asha-Rosa Migiro of
Tanzania.
The President expressed concern at the
situation in the Middle East and especially
the suffering of the people of Palestine who
have not yet achieved their right to self-
determination and independence. Similarly,
Green scheme on course
The design of the Tandjieskoppe green scheme project is
progressing well and it is anticipated that the design will be
concluded by July 2007, paving the way for the construction of
the project to start around September this year.
A
lthough the green scheme activities are
currently focussed on infrastructure
development, it will eventually enhance
employment opportunities and food security
in Namibia.
The long term goal of the green scheme is
to increase the current 8 600 hectares under
irrigation to 40 000 hectares.
At Tandjieskoppe 1 000 hectares of irrigated
land will be developed for the production of
grapes, dates and vegetables.
According to Agriculture, Water and Forestry
Minister, Nickey Iyambo, a total of N$358
million has been budgeted over six years for
the completion of this project.
Besides the N$40 million that the
Namibian Government budgeted for this
the lack of progress with the implementation
of the UN Resolutions on Western Sahara
remains a concern to Namibia. He called on
the international community to intensify efforts
to find permanent solutions to the problems in
Palestine and the Western Sahara. President
Pohamba also hailed the Africa-South America
Summit of 2005 aimed at strengthening
south-south cooperation and said Namibia
is honoured to host the second Africa-Latin
America Governor and Mayors meeting that will
take place in Windhoek in May 2007.
project, developing partners, such as the
African Development Bank, BADEA and
the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting
Countries (OPEC) are financially contributing
to this project.
Minister Iyambo told the Cabinet Review 15
Meeting late last year that approximately
20 people are employed during the design
phase of the project, while 1 500 permanent
workers will be employed on completion of
the project.
A further 2 000 people will be employed
as seasonal workers during harvesting and
processing.
It is anticipated that 130 small scale farmers
will farm on a leasehold basis on 4 hectare
farms, while 13 commercial farmers will be
allocated 40 hectares each on a leasehold basis.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Road infrastructure receives attention

The Directorate Transportation Infrastructure in the Ministry of Works, Transport and
Communication is busy with at least five projects to upgrade and improve different stretches of
road in Nambia.

I
n the Omusati region, work on the N$88
million project to upgrade the 55 km
road between Outapi to Tsandi to bitumen
standard was completed in December 2006.
This project, that started in July 2004 was
due for completion in July 2005, but the
extension of 13 km road to Okahao delayed
the project. A total of 189 people, 172
Namibians and 17 foreigners were employed
on this project that links the economic
centres of Tsandi, Outapi and Okahao with
Oshakati and give communities access to
main hospitals and schools.
the Lüderitz harbour for export purposes.
In an earlier Government Information Bulletin
information was given about the Rundu-Siko-
Nkurenkuru-Mpungu-Kongo-Elundu road that
will be constructed at a cost of N$810.457
million in the Kavango and Ohangwena
regions. It is envisaged that construction on
the first phase of this road will start early in
2007 and local people and contractors along
the road will be used for construction work.
This road will promote interregional trade
between the Kavango and Ohangwena
regions and give access to the Ondangwa-
Oshikango road towards Angola and the
Rundu-Katima Mulilo road to Zambia.
The fifth project is the rehabilitation
and improvement of the road between
Okahandja and Karibib at a cost of N$197.7
million. The successful contractor will start
working on the first 45 km stretch of road in
March 2007, while planning on the second
32 km will run parallel with the construction
of the first phase. Work on the second phase
will commence as funds become available.

In the Kunene region, the first 104 km phase

of the Kamanjab-Omakange project, that
will eventually see the bitumen road run
to Opuwo, is underway and the first 15 km
of road is already completed and open to
traffic. Another 30 km has been prepared and
surfaced. The tender for the 104 km stretch
for phase 2 of the project was advertised, President Hifikepunye Pohamba opened the Aminius Constituency Office in the Omaheke region on 25 January
2007. The office was build to bring services colser to the people.
but has not been awarded due to the

Namibia will not allow mob rule

unavailability of funds. To date a total of 138
people - 123 Namibians and 15 foreigners -
have been employed on this N$295.8 million
project. The Kunene region is a sought after
16
tourist destination and once completed, the
road will ease access to the region.
In the Karas region, the first section of the
N$309.761 million Aus-Rosh Pinah road has
been completed and is open to traffic. The
open section is the 118 km from Rosh Pinah
up to Greens towards Aus. Construction
on the 51 km second section from Greens
to Aus was completed late in 2006. A total
of 239 Namibians and 55 foreigners were
involved in the construction of this road that
connects Rosh Pinah with the tarred road
from Keetmanshoop to Lüderitz, giving the
Rosh Pinah mining industry easy access to
The Government will not allow mob rule within the borders of
Namibia and those involved in violence and intolerance will
answer for their action through the country’s justice system,
President Hifikepunye Pohamba warned when he opened the
first Cabinet meeting for 2007 on 23 January.
The Government will not allow “seeds of will consciously and continuously invest in
discord and division to undermine the unity peace, political and socio-economic stability.
of our people”, President Pohamba said with He said he is convinced that Namibians
reference to the killing of a young Namibian in can live in peace and harmony because the
the Aminuis constituency when two traditional nation’s common values and goals exceed their
authorities clashed over the swearing in of differences. “Our strength as a nation lies in the
a senior counsellor. President Pohamba said colourful diversity of the Namibian people and in
peace and stability were prerequisites for our different cultures, traditions, backgrounds,
sustainable development and the ruling Party skills and knowledge”, the President said.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007
NBC works for country-wide coverage
The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation made significant strides since 2001 to cover Namibia
with radio and television signals.
R
adio reception increased with 5% from
89% to 94% coverage, while television
coverage currently stands at 64% compared
to 45% in 2001.
Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
informed the Cabinet Review Meeting in
November last year that a further18 towns
received television reception recently,
while 12 more towns will be added soon
with the expansion of the NBC’s transmitter
network.
By May 2007, Sesfontein will also receive FM
and television services.
At the same time, the NBC increased its
broadcast quality and embarked on the
equal treatment of language services, better
sharing of technology implementation and
the introduction of a San language service
in Tsumkwe.
The NBC hopes to bring the San radio service
to Windhoek early in 2007.
A total of 17 tenders for the expansion of the
NBC transmitter programme served before
the NBC Board late in November 2006.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba at the opening of the Otjinene Constituency
Office in the Omaheke region on 24 January 2007.
These tenders provide for the
upgrading of the Corporation’s
contribution centres in
Otjiwarongo and Keetmanshoop,
as well as the upgrading of the
National Radio, News and Current
Affairs; TV Current Affairs; and
the Radio Centre at the NBC head
office in Windhoek.
Another tender provides for the
purchasing of three radio outside Information & Broadcasting Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
who is responsible for the performance of the NBC.
broadcast vans for Oshakati and
Windhoek, as well as Rundu and
Katima Mulilo that will share the services of cameras and broadcast facilities.
one van.
Once these challenges have been overcome,
Although remarkable progress has been all communities will have access to
made, the NBC is still faced with a number of information, while regional events will be
challenges that are hampering its expansion shared across the country.
countrywide, Mrs. Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
News events will, furthermore, be current and
These challenges include bringing the San not delayed and Namibians will be able to
language to Windhoek and to connect to listen to the radio station and language service
other regions, to do instant live broadcasts of of their choice, not matter where they are.
events for breaking news, to ensure country-
wide television reception, ensuring that all It will also ensure that educational and
languages services are available throughout entertainment programmes are provided
to all.
17
the country and to equip all 13 regions with
Mrs. Nandi-Ndaitwah informed Cabinet
that the future plans of the NBC include
nationwide broadcasting to Keetmanshoop
and Swakopmund to ensure reception of all
languages in these areas.
The NBC is also planning to establish radio
and television services at Aus, Buitepos and
Ruacana and to complete upgrading work at
Kongola and Omega.
Mobile satellite facilities will also be
purchased in the 2007/2008 financial year.

Namibia and the SADC-EU Economic
Partnership Agreement (EPA) Negotiations
The purpose of this article is to provide information to the public regarding the ongoing trade
negotiations between the Southern African Developing Community (SADC) and the European Union.
T
he African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)
Group of countries and the European
Union (EU) entered into a twenty (20) year
Partnership Agreement in 2000, commonly
referred to as the Cotonou Agreement. This
Agreement constitutes an international legal
instrument that governs political, economic,
trade and financial relations between the
ACP countries and the EU. The Economic and
Trade Cooperation Part of the Agreement
provides for non-reciprocal preferential
access to a wide range of ACP originating
products to the EU market.
The current trading arrangement between
the ACP and the EU is in contravention of
the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
(GATT) provision on Most-Favoured-Nation
Treatment, as it discriminates amongst
members of the World Trade Organization
(WTO) in favour of the ACP countries. Hence
it operates under a WTO waiver. In order to
bring the ACP-EU trade relations in line with
GATT, the Cotonou Agreement provides for
negotiations of new WTO compatible trading
arrangements, commonly referred to as the
Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs),
18
which are in line with GATT Article XXIV.
In terms of approach, the EPAs are expected
to be entered into between the EU on one
hand and the various economic groupings
of the ACP on the other. In other words,
there will not be an EU/ACP wide EPA. The
decisions regarding regional configuration
for the purpose of these negotiations were
left to the individual ACP member states.
Namibia, together with other SACU member
states (Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa and
Swaziland) chose to configure under SADC.
However, six SADC member states chose to
Government Information Bulletin February 2007
configure outside of SADC. This situation
resulted in a SADC configuration composed
of SACU and three other SADC member
states, namely Mozambique, Angola and
Tanzania (MAT), which is commonly referred
to as the SADC-EPA. This configuration
has its own complexities in terms of the
varying degrees of development among
member states, i.e. one large developing
country economy (South Africa), three small
developing country economies (Namibia,
Botswana and Swaziland) and four least
developed countries (LDCs) (Lesotho,
Mozambique, Angola and Tanzania).
One of the stated objectives of EPAs is to
promote regional integration. It is common
knowledge that South Africa, who is Namibia’s
important trading partner, has a separate
Trade and Development Cooperation
Agreement (TDCA) with the EU. Botswana,
Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (BLNS) who
are in a Customs Union with South Africa are
impacted by (i.e. indirectly implementing)
South Africa’s concessions under the TDCA.
The SACU Agreement provides for amongst
others, a common negotiating mechanism
for SACU with respect to preferential trade
agreements with third countries. It also
provides for the development of common
policies and cooperation in areas of industrial
development, competition, agriculture and
unfair trade practices. Therefore, in the
context of SACU’s integration agenda there
is need to harmonize trade relations with
the EU, in a manner that BLNS interests are
also taken on board. In the broader context
of SADC’s regional integration agenda,
there is a need for further harmonization of
SADC-EPA trade relations with the EU, in a
manner that the trade interests of all SADC-
EPA member states are taken on board in
the final SADC-EU EPA. As far as Namibia
is concerned, the main areas of interest in
these negotiations include improved market
access for all products of export interest
to Namibia, i.e. agricultural and non-
agricultural, trade facilitation, special and
differential treatment, the plight of LDCs and
deeper regional integration in SADC.
Negotiations for the SADC-EU EPA were
launched in July 2004 in Windhoek. All EPAs
between the ACP and the EU are expected
to enter into force by 1 January 2008, when
the WTO waiver expires. The SADC – EU
EPA negotiations are on course and the two
parties have been discussing and exchanging
views on the format and content of the
Agreement. One of the key questions the
two parties are currently addressing is how
to treat countries of varying developmental
status, (especially South Africa which is
regarded as having relatively competitive
industries). It is a delicate question in
light of the SADC-EPA countries’ resolve to
harmonize their trade relations with the EU
as one of the ways of consolidating their
regional integration efforts. This is an issue
that we are confident will be resolved soon.
Currently, there is anxiety in the public
domain, especially industries relying on
export to the EU, regarding the risk of
loosing the current preferential access
to that market, if SADC-EPA negotiations
are not concluded on schedule. This is a
justifiable concern, but needs to be placed
into its right context. There is nowhere in the
Cotonou Agreement where it is stated that
the current preferential trade arrangement
will come to an end by the end of 2007.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

However, the Cotonou Agreement does
provide for the negotiations of new WTO
compatible trading arrangements to replace
the current one by the 1st January 2008.
In reality the trade component is valid for
a period of 20 years as part of the overall
Cotonou Agreement. Therefore, it can only
be replaced by the EPAs upon their entry
into force. This means that if the end of the
current trade preferences is contingent on
entry into force of the EPAs, then any action to
the contrary will be in breach of the Cotonou
Agreement. Concluding EPAs on schedule is
a responsibility of both parties, to which they
have both expressed commitment. The expiry of the WTO waiver on 31st
December 2007 is an issue of concern to
It is also important to note that Namibia, all as it will open the continuation of current
together with other developing countries in the trade arrangement to challenges by other
WTO, is a beneficiary to the EU’s Generalized WTO members. Both the EU and the SADC-
System of Preferences (GSP). The EU GSP, EPA have expressed their commitment to
which is permitted by the WTO, also provides concluding the negotiations in the course of
preferential market access to products 2007, failing which they are also committed
originating from developing countries, to finding an amicable solution, in the spirit
although to a lesser favourable degree than of the Cotonou Agreement. We, therefore,
the Cotonou Agreement. Therefore, if EPAs would like to assure the business community
are not concluded on time, there is an option and public in general that the SADC-EU EPA
of exporting qualifying products to the EU negotiations are on course and there is no
under the EU GSP system. need for alarm at this stage.

Scenes from first house to war veteran

Children doing a traditional dance at the handing over of Mr. Ndakolo’s house. Sharp contrast between the old and the new. The shack in front of the new house
on the left used to be the shelter of Mr. and Mrs. Ndakolo

19

President Pohamba prepares to cut the ribbon to the new house Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development Minister John
of the Ndakolo couple, while Mr. Ndakolo looks on. Pandeni (left) and Permanent Secretary Erastus Negonga in a jovial mood at the
handing over of the house to Mr. and Mrs. Ndakolo.
 Government Information Bulletin February 2007

Public asked to name State House halls

The Namibian public is invited to suggest names of cultural or historic significance for the eight
halls of the New State House in Auasblick, Windhoek.

A
t its 22nd meeting held on 12 December
2006, Cabinet decided that the new
office block in Auasblick, Windhoek, will be
called State House.
Upon expiry of the deadline, the proposed The public will be informed of the successful
names will be submitted to the Ministers proposals to name the new State House
Committee to take a final decision. Halls.

At the same meeting, Cabinet decided that

the public should be invited to submit names
President meets Mayor
of cultural or historic significance for the
naming of the eight halls of the new State
House.

Each proposed name should be accompanied

by a short motivation, indicating the cultural
or historic significance of the proposal.

The public is hereby invited to submit

proposed names in writing to the Permanent
Secretary, Ministry of Works, Transport
and Communication, Private Bag 13341,
Windhoek.

The deadline for the submission of the

On 17 January 2007, Windhoek Mayor, Councillor Mathew Shikongo paid
names is Friday, 30 March 2007. a courtesy call on President Hifikepunye Pohamba at State House.

New Ministry is making progress

20 The finalisation of its medium term planning, the recruitment of staff and the drafting of
legislation to govern its operations are among the immediate objectives of the Ministry of
Veterans Affairs.

T
he Ministry of Veterans Affairs was
established on 4 October 2006 to
ensure the total integration of PLAN fighters
into society through the coordination and
implementation of various social programmes.
Briefing the Cabinet Review Meeting late
last year on his Ministry’s progress, Minister
Ngarikutuke Tjiriange said his newly
established Ministry was still working on its
structure, staffing and job descriptions.
Simultaneously, attention is given to drafting
a definition of who a war veteran or ex-
combatant is, while continuing with the
identification and registration process of war
veterans and ex-combatants.
Consultations with churches, the pubic and
private sectors, as well as other stakeholders on
the future of war veterans are also ongoing.
According to Dr. Tjiriange, the long term
objectives of the Ministry of Veterans
Affairs are the creation of projects aimed
at alleviating the plight of veterans, the
provision of skills development and suitable
programmes, as well as the identification
of specific needs of disabled veterans.
Attention is also given to the establishment
of a legally recognised association for
veterans for bargaining purposes, while
the development of an efficient monitoring
system is also receiving attention.