FlyNamibia January 2024

Issue 26 | January 2024

Take me home! Your free copy

i Takes Katima aim

T

adventure | lifestyle | discovering kavango and zambezi | conservation | art | economic pulse | feel good stories

OUR MINING EFFORTS ARE FOR THE GOOD OF OUR COMMUNITIES We work with our stakeholders to ensure that communities thrive, sustainably, through enabling quality healthcare and education.

At Namdeb, we are about more than mining.

We are about mining for good.

NAMDEB. GOOD TODAY. BETTER TOMORROW.

From the Publisher

Stories in FlyNamibia Magazine.

FIRE

This is us.

Namibia Travel News

www.travelnewsnamibia.com

FISH RIVER CANYON

“But how could you live and have no story to tell?”

- Fyodor Dostoevsky

A

is for Awesome... and Ads.

SUMMER 2023/24 | Vol 32 No 1

Conquering the

Read this issue online!

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Disclaimer: Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content within this magazine, Venture Publications Pty Ltd and FlyNamibia accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. The views expressed by individual authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or FlyNamibia. All material, including text and images, is the property of its respective authors and cannot be reproduced or used without explicit permission from Venture Publications Pty Ltd.

extraordinary Namibian stories. publishing. content generation. content marketing. print. film. digital.

CONTENT IS

are compiled by Venture Media’s content team, in partnership with Tribefire Studios and freelance contributors.

Hiking SORRIS SORRIS

Khaudumand Nyae Nyae

The Last True Wilderness

VOLUME 32 No 1 SUMMER 2023/24

Aawambo Pottery | KAZA Elephant count | Zambezi Birding N$45.00 incl. VAT

CONSERVATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN NAMIBIA 2023

T H E G R E AT E R E T O S H A C A R N I VO R E PROGRAMME A TRIUMPH FOR

THE STORY OF NAMIBIAN BUSH

GIRAFFE C O N S E R VAT I O N I N NAMIBIA

TURNING PROBLEMS INTO OPPORTUNITIES

T H E N YA E N YA E PA N G O L I N P R O J E C T N A M I B I A’ S C L I M AT E

A N D T H E N E E D T O A D A PT T O A N U N C E R TA I N F U T U R E

and also

by Tribefire Studios

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

1

OUR STORYTELLERS Meet the voices behind the incredible stories we share with Namibia each month. The pages of FlyNamibia are a collaboration of Namibian minds and passions and we hope you find a narrative that speaks directly to you amongst them.

14 19 26 Charene Labuschagne

Laimi Elago

Dr Bettina Zalto

37 Maggie Forcelledo Paz

Art director, writer and presenter, she tells stories out of pure necessity for expression. Namibia is her favourite subject.

Radio host: Lunch with Laimi Corporate Communications Officer Future Media Summits with a Purpose Namibia Representative

Welcome to a world where expertise merges seamlessly with compassion, guided by my capable hands.

99FM News & Content Editor.

Passion and dedication to keep the nation abreast with what’s happening on national and international level.

58

17

23

53

Dawn Jorgensen

Earth Advocate, Beauty Seeker, Conscious Traveller, Storyteller, Lover of Africa, and Wildlife Conservation Enthusiast.

2

29

25

David Bishop

Broadcast Editor, voracious reader, sometime writer, cyclist, swimmer, climber, family man, and coffee lover.

Rukee Kaakunga

A Windhoek-based communications specialist, blogger and freelance fashion writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com

Victoria Nakafingo

An aspiring astronomer, who enjoys gazing at the stars and sharing science research stories.

Table of

CONTENTS 14

34

42

54

Content is Fire

01

FlyNamibia Magazine’s Storytellers

02

Welcome on Board

09

Love Local

10

Life on a Table

13

10 Minutes with Local Tastemakers

14

Reflections: A News Editor's View

17

HOME: Keep vs Toss

18

Look/Listen

21

Fashion Fierce

22

Book Review: Hey you, Liberator

25

Exploring Katima Mulilo

26

Wellness: Onset of menopause symptoms

29

At Home Under a Bushmanland Baobab

30

99FM Royal Hustlers: A review of 2023’s Movers

33

Discovering Kavango & Zambezi

34

Unleash Your Zest for Adventure

37

Buzzing to Success

38

Economic Pulse

41

The Africa Millimeter Project

42

From Begging to Owning a Business

45

Homegrown Storybooks for Namibia’s Children

46

Conservation Starts on a Full Stomach

48

The Geological Evidence of Climate Change

53

Peter Hiskia’s Jewellery Journey

54

Content Piracy: A Fight For African Culture and Heritage

57

Cape Town Explored: Your First-Time Visitor's Guide

58

Did you Know?

63

Love Namibia

64

58

Need To Knows. with FlyNamibia

How to buy

a ticket online www.flynam.com

Select your flight Select which tickets you would like to purchase: destinations, travel dates, morning/afternoon departure. We offer multiple fare options such as: Saver, Classic or Premium

Additional flight information / rules Read up on all our additional information regarding terms and conditions, and tick the selection box once completed to continue.

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Baggage policy, sporting equipment, over weight luggage or to add an additional bag(s)

How can you make

You can also purchase

from:

a payment?

Cash payment at: Eros Airport, Ondangwa Airport, Oranjemund Airport

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

Online card transaction

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Windhoek Eros Airport Office Ondangwa airport office Rundu airport office Katima Mulilo airport office Hosea Kutako airport office

Check-in

prior to flight Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure of the flight on Fly Namibia Check-in opens 1h 30min before domestic flight and 2 hours before international flight.

Check-in CLOSES 30 min prior to domestic flight and 50 min prior to international flight.

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See full conditions of carriage by scanning the QR code

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

5

DOMESTIC & SAFARI FLIGHTS Katima Mulilo Ondangwa

Skeleton Coast Park

Bwabwata National Park

Rundu Mokuti

Etosha National Park

Otavi

Nkasa Rupara National Park

Khaudum National Park

Tsumeb

Ongava

Mudumu National Park

Grootfontein

Twyfelfontein Otjiwarongo

Waterberg Plateau Park

Dorob National Park

REGIONAL FLIGHTS

Okahandja

Swakopmund

Windhoek

Walvis Bay

Gobabis

NamibNaukluft Park

ANGOLA Mariental

ZAMBIA

Keerweder (Sossusvlei)

ZIMBABWE

NAMIBIA Keetmanshoop

Walvis Bay

Windhoek

BOTSWANA

MOZAMBIQUE

Lüderitz

Ai-Ais/ Richtersveld Transfrontier Park

Oranjemund

SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town

with FlyNamibia Contact The Call Centre | +264 83 339 0011 Schedule as per date of going to print. Please check the FlyNamibia website to stay updated on flight destinations, routes and schedules.

6

Departure

Arrival

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS DEPARTURE

FROM

TO

ARRIVAL

DAYS

07:30

Eros - Windhoek

Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo

08:30

Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun

09:10

Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo

Eros - Windhoek

10:10

Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun

16:00

Eros - Windhoek

Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo

16:50

Fri, Sun

17:40

Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo

Eros - Windhoek

18:30

Fri, Sun

07:30

Eros - Windhoek

Rundu

09:00

Mon, Wed, Fri

16:00

Rundu

Eros - Windhoek

17:30

Mon, Wed, Fri

11:00

Eros - Windhoek

Katima Mulilo

12:25

Wed, Fri, Sun

13:10

Katima Mulilo

Eros - Windhoek

14:40

Wed, Fri, Sun

07:00

Eros - Windhoek

Oranjemund

08:15

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

13:15

Oranjemund

Eros - Windhoek

14:30

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

07:15

Eros - Windhoek

Lüderitz

08:15

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

13:30

Lüderitz

Eros - Windhoek

14:30

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

REGIONAL FLIGHTS DEPARTURE

FROM

TO

ARRIVAL

DAYS

07:30

HKIA - Windhoek

Cape Town

09:30

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

18:10

Cape Town

HKIA - Windhoek

20:10

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

15:00

Walvis Bay

Cape Town

17:00

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

10:20

Cape Town

Walvis Bay

12:20

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

SAFARI FLIGHTS DEPARTURE

FROM

TO

ARRIVAL

DAYS

10:00

HKIA - Windhoek

Keerweder

10:55

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

11:20

Keerweder

Swakopmund

12:10

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

12:50

Swakopmund

Twyfelfontein

13:30

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

14:00

Twyfelfontein

Ongava

14:40

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

15:05

Ongava

Mokuti

15:30

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

16:00

Mokuti

HKIA - Windhoek

17:00

Tue, Thu, Sun

10:00

HKIA - Windhoek

Mokuti

11:00

Tue, Thu, Sun

11:30

Mokuti

Ongava

11:55

Tue, Thu, Sun

12:20

Ongava

Twyfelfontein

13:00

Tue, Thu, Sun

13:30

Twyfelfontein

Swakopmund

14:10

Tue, Thu, Sun

14:50

Swakopmund

Keerweder

15:40

Mon, Wed, Fri

16:05

Keerweder

HKIA - Windhoek

17:00

Mon, Wed, Fri

*HKIA - Hosea Kutako International Airport

Have you heard?

You can

bank from here

Use your phone or computer to bank from anywhere you choose.

FNB App Online Banking Cellphone Banking eWallet Switch to FNB

of Namibia Limited. Reg. No. 2002/0180. A subsidiary of FirstRand Namibia Limited

8

We Rise

by Lifting Others FlyNamibia's Visionary Journey

Dear Valued Passengers, As we embark on the journey of a new year, all of us at FlyNamibia wish you a joyous and prosperous 2024! May this year take you to new heights, bring you wonderful adventures, and fill your life with memorable journeys.

At FlyNamibia, we are more than an airline; we aspire to be a symbol of progress, a bridge connecting diverse cultures, and a catalyst for growth in Namibia, and across Africa. Our journey, underpinned by the ethos "We rise by lifting others," is not just about reaching new destinations but about creating pathways for shared success and prosperity.

Our expansion plans, set to commence in April 2024, exemplify our ambition to connect the African continent like never before. We are proudly extending our wings from Windhoek to Victoria Falls International Airport in Zimbabwe, Maun International Airport in Botswana, and Luanda in Angola. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to making the African skies more accessible and bringing the world closer to the beauty and potential of our country.

In September 2023, we marked a significant milestone by becoming a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This achievement is not just a recognition but a responsibility that we take seriously, ensuring that we adhere to the highest global standards in safety, security, and operational excellence​​.

One of our new regional routes, launched in October 2023, seamlessly connects Walvis Bay and Cape Town. This route is more than a convenience; it's a celebration of connectivity, enabling people to explore, businesses to flourish, and cultures to intermingle​​.

Our strategic partnership with Airlink, a South African airline, embodies our belief in the power of collaboration. Through this partnership, we are reinforcing our presence in the region and expanding our global footprint, demonstrating that together, we can achieve greater heights​​. Furthermore, our integration into the Global Distribution System (GDS) through this partnership opens up a world of opportunities, allowing us to reach a wider audience and share the FlyNamibia experience with more people​​.

At FlyNamibia, we understand that our growth is intertwined with the growth of the communities we serve. Every flight we operate, every route we open, and every partnership we forge is a step towards a more interconnected and prosperous Africa. We are not just an airline; we are a vehicle for change, an ambassador of our nation's aspirations, and a partner in Africa's journey towards a brighter future.

As we soar into the new year, we remain committed to our vision of bringing people together and contributing positively to the global aviation community. We believe that in lifting others, we ourselves rise, and in doing so, we help chart a course for a world where distances diminish and dreams take flight.

Thank you for choosing to fly with us. We look forward to being a part of your travels in the year ahead, continuing to connect you with the beauty and diversity of our destinations.

Here's to a year of new beginnings, safe travels, and skies filled with endless possibilities!

Warmest wishes, The FlyNamibia Team

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

9

LO C AL O V E

Unique local lifestyle brands we're loving, and why you should too

DROOMBOS

We love their unique approach to events. Picture this: you are hosting a conference, and the dedicated team at Droombos turns your vision into reality, infusing the gathering with big ideas and smart applications. With their bespoke menus and catering options, state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities, unique team-building activities, and indoor and outdoor spaces, Droombos sets the stage for conferences, corporate functions, launches and much more. Stunning on-site accommodation completes their offering, ensuring that your event at Droombos is more than just a meeting – it’s an experience. +264 81 872 2613 / +264 83 288 8352 / +264 61 250 238 reservations@droombos.com.na / events@droombos.com.na www.droombos.com.na

THE VILLAGE We love what it has to offer as a dynamic meeting place in Windhoek. The Village is where sustainable living meets a variety of businesses, creating a unique community. From various on-site restaurants, accommodation, business meeting rooms to event spaces: The Village stands out as a melting pot of work and leisure. Whether you are looking to keep up with the latest happenings, satisfy culinary cravings, strategise with colleagues or need a venue for an event – The Village invites you to Liliencron Street, the heartbeat of Windhoek in 2024.

18 Liliencron Street, Windhoek www.villagewhk.com @village_garden_whk

10

IETSIEMEER We love their ample space for large families or groups. With exclusive use of the property on a self-catering basis for up to 28 guests, Ietsiemeer Beach House was designed to emulate a homely ambience, creating an ideal setting for extended family gatherings or long weekends with all your friends. The house’s enclosed courtyard is ideal for outdoor socialising and braais, regardless of the weather.

With a spacious kitchen, dining and living room overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, comfortable and luxurious bedrooms and direct beach access, your big group can make the most of their Henties Bay getaway.

Reservations: +264 81 141 0702 or ietsiemeer2@gmail.com www.ietsiemeer.com @ietsiemeer

EMSSENCE We love their summer scarves. Namibia’s indigenous trees, including mopane, baobab, marula and quiver, are depicted in classic botanical illustrations and printed on vibrant textiles.

The Emssence summer scarves are lightweight and breathable in slinky satin and textured cotton, adding the perfect pop of colour to an outfit and flowing glamorously in a cool breeze.

These square scarves, and the entire Emssence botanical range, are designed to champion our country’s beautiful flora, celebrating indigenous plants and hand-crafted in small, mindful batches.

Shop Emssence products at the Droombos Gift Shop m@emssence.com @ems.sence @emssence

Are you a Nam or SA based lifestyle brand?

List your label with us for only N$1,000 per month for 6 months | fly@venture.com.na

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

11

12

Foodies

CHICKEN

in a mediterranean sauce

INGREDIENTS 1.5 kg chicken pieces 125 ml flour 45 ml olive oil

SAUCE 1 onion, finely chopped (or spring onions) 2 cloves garlic 100 g chopped bacon 1 green pepper, diced 30 ml tomato paste 250 ml dry white wine 30 ml vinegar 1 x 410 g can tomatoes 5 ml dried basil leaves 5 ml sugar 1 x 45 g tin anchovies, drained 60 ml black olives, pitted and halved 20 ml fresh parsley, chopped 175 g black mushrooms, sliced (optional) 2 bay leaves Salt and pepper to taste

Hentie Burger

INSTRUCTIONS •

Dust the chicken pieces with flour, salt and pepper to taste. Heat oil in a skillet, add the chicken and cook until browned all over. Place the chicken into an ovenproof dish.

•

Add the onion, bacon and garlic to the pan and cook, stirring, until the onion is soft. Add the mushrooms, fry until soft. Add the remaining ingredients and boil down to half the liquid.

•

Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and bake covered at 180°C for one hour.

•

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Discover more of Antoinette's delicious recipes in Life on a Table To order your copy contact Bonn Nortjé at Venture Publications: bonn@venture.com.na

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

13

14

Lavinia Kapewasha

10 Minutes

F

with local tastemakers

irst and foremost storyteller, then theatre kid, Leo, producer, director, writer and actor. That’s Lavinia. But these characteristics imply putting her in a box, and you couldn’t do that with her, even if you tried.

is precisely that. The director winces at the low budget she had to work with, and her perfectionism, which she had to suppress. Her advice is, “Just put yourself out there. It’s never going to be perfect, but maybe there’s someone out there who needs to see it more than you need to hold onto it.”

The daughter of a diplomat, Lavinia has lived in India, Russia and the UK. Now she calls Windhoek home, and she is a refreshing voice in the Namibian theatre scene and film industry. Her latest directorial work, The Goal, was presented on Showmax in September 2023, along with 12 other locally produced films. When it comes to putting Namibian film on the map, Lavinia is the moment!

She is also one of the organisers of the Otjomuise Live Arts Festival (OLAF). Running for its third year in 2023, the festival was born out of the inaccessibility of various artistic expressions to the majority of Windhoek’s residents. OLAF takes the performing arts into public spaces around the city with its annual week-long celebration of Otjomuise’s talent.

Due to her day job as production coordinator at the National Theatre of Namibia, Lavinia’s storytelling for the sake of expression unfortunately takes a backseat. Relatable, isn’t it? Which in part is why she is convinced that serious funding ought to be channelled to the arts. For artists to be artists, because creativity isn’t an on/off switch.

Lavinia regularly hosts lively karaoke nights at Wolfshack on weekdays as part of the Karaoke’s Angels trio with Hildegard Titus and Ndayola Ulenga. Her social media profile is a magical mix of sharing auditions and artist opportunities, and a steady stream of grand outfits and aesthetics.

I call myself an Afrofuturist.

If it were up to Lavinia, she would be writing science fiction and have a big budget to make it happen, but she concedes that her work as a production coordinator is fundamental to cementing her network and her agility in the industry. It is a double-edged sword – artists need time to sit around and do nothing, but they also need to gain exposure. Whatever pays your bills and keeps you fulfilled, that’s the sweet spot.

Lavinia’s prowess lies in writing, directing and acting what she knows, which is the most earnest place from which to create. During her theatre and film studies in the UK – albeit a key chapter in her professional development – it became clear that her purpose as a black woman in film and theatre is to tell stories about people like her, from a place of knowing and with the goal to create something that is the voice of its time. Untitled – The Web Series, Lavinia’s directorial debut,

You see, you really can’t label Lavinia.

“I call myself an Afrofuturist”, she says.

We will take her at her word and gladly watch as she shatters boundaries and prejudices on her way to stardom.

Charene Labuschagne

CONTENT CREDITS: Photography by @pekelatate Creative Direction and Styling by @ericketjiueza Makeup by @byjayaeron Hair @couturrhair.l

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

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16

A News Editor's View

Navigating 2024 A resolution for compassionate reporting on mental health

H

appy New Year, and welcome to 2024 (he says in that weird way flight attendants do when you reach your destination, as if they’ve somehow gotten there before you…).

This is the time of year we usually make resolutions to try harder, to be better. They include things like stopping smoking, slowing down on your drinking, exercising more, or being kinder – some of which are easier to stick to than others. When it comes to the media (and, I suppose, people in general), the resolution I’d most like to see adopted is to change the way we report on, and speak about, mental health and suicide. I know it is not the most cheerful subject for the first column of the new year, but I believe it is a topic that needs a lot more understanding by a much larger portion of society.

Whenever suicide is reported on, whether in the news or in police reports some organisations seem to just ‘copy/ paste’ from, there is always one solitary incident listed as the ‘cause’ of a suicide. I’ve seen reports saying the person killed themselves: “after having a fight with their girlfriend/ boyfriend”; “after their father shouted at them for breaking their cellphone”; “when they got into trouble for not having washed the dishes”; or, one of the worst cases of this which was carried on the front page of more than one of our local newspapers, “because of the shame they felt when they were caught looking at pornography” – which is just plain shoddy reporting that perpetuates whatever implied or imposed shame there may have been, especially seeing as the name of the young person was included in the article.

In certain cases, sure, suicide can be the consequence of a single event or action, but generally it is the culmination of a long struggle and much anguish, and (disagree with me all you want) contrary to what many may say on social media, it is not a thoughtless act! As someone who has suffered perhaps ‘more than my fair share’ of suicidal ideation I can tell you that is not a decision that most people who resort to will have made without lots of lots of thought. In the words of David Foster Wallace (yes, I do quote him a lot):

abstract conviction that life’s assets and debits do not square.

And surely not because death seems suddenly appealing.

The person in whom Its invisible agony reaches a certain unendurable level will kill herself the same way a trapped person will eventually jump from the window of a burning high-rise. Make no mistake about people who leap from burning windows. Their terror of falling from a great height is still just as great as it would be for you or me standing speculatively at the same window just checking out the view; i.e. the fear of falling remains a constant. The variable here is the other terror, the fire’s flames: when the flames get close enough, falling to death becomes the slightly less terrible of two terrors. It’s not desiring the fall; it’s terror of the flames.

And yet nobody down on the sidewalk, looking up and yelling ‘Don’t!’ and ‘Hang on!’, can understand the jump. Not really.

You’d have to have personally been trapped and felt flames to really understand a terror way beyond falling.”

Being in the media industry myself, I understand that when reporting on a suicide there isn’t always the time, resources, or (let’s face it) training and understanding, to go into the background and nuance of a suicide case. But, if we can’t spend the time to humanize the subject of the story rather than just quoting the police report, should we be reporting on it at all? Especially if we take into account the results of various studies that show reporting on suicide can actually lead to an increase in people committing the act!

Perhaps less a resolution then, but rather my hope for 2024 is that we all take a little more time to think about the humanity of the subject of our stories, both in the media and on our own social media timelines, Whatsapp messages, and conversations. That instead of judging we try to understand, and that if the flames start drawing nearer, in your own life, or others’, that they can be extinguished. Above all else that 2024 is a great year for you and those you love, and that…

Until next month (and all the ones after that), you enjoy your journey.

David Bishop

“The so-called ‘psychotically depressed’ person who tries to kill herself doesn’t do so out of quote ‘hopelessness’ or any

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out to Lifeline at 116 or Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Support Namibia at +265 81 389 8891.

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

17

Keep vs Toss Interior trends from 2023 we’re carrying along to the new year, and those we want to leave behind

Keep - Thrifted

Toss - Marble everything

Keep - Frame TV

18

Toss - Neon signs

Toss - Coffee Table books

Keep - Bathroom sanctuary

Toss - Wrinkled bedding

Keep - Do It Yourself

Home

A

whole twelve months of interior design triumphs and pitfalls are now in the rearview mirror, allowing us to review the home trends that have surfaced on TikTok and Instagram, and whether they have staying power beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Trends inherently mean they will blow over, so decorating your home according to the latest fad will never be a good idea, in part because we are striving for a more circular system rather than throwing things out the moment we and the internet have outgrown the phase.

There is a big difference between images we like to see on social media that are soothing and beautiful to look at, and the kind of spaces that are practical and that we actually want to live in. This discernment lies with you, but because I like sharing my opinion without being prompted, here’s a run-down of design trends that I believe have staying power, and the ones we should (please) leave with 2023.

WHAT WE ARE KEEPING: Do it yourself – we can’t all afford the $60 million Kim K house I get fired up about a visit to the hardware store and using power tools, although probably incorrectly. But more than I enjoy the idea of getting my hands dirty, is knowing that DIY is its own genre of home decoration. On social media salad bowls have become the base of wooden coffee tables, bouclé chairs are upholstered at home and unfortunately also saw the foam spray mirror frame epidemic of 2020. The best DIY projects are thoroughly thought through, approached with measuring tape and lots of discretion. Odds are, if you are eager to pursue a DIY, someone else has done it before you and shared their hacks on the internet, which is why we would like to carry the money saving trend into the new year.

Thrifting – pre-loved will never go out of style As we collectively lean towards warmer interiors including wood and textures, thrifted furniture has made a rightful comeback. Antique cabinets, retro lamps and vintage patterned sofas are on the rise from Pinterest to Architectural Digest, and can often be acquired at thrift shops at a fraction of the remake price. More often than not, vintage-inspired furniture bought new doesn’t quite hit the mark on look and feel the same way that an authentic piece does. Plus, as far as our fast-fashion, wasteful society is concerned, we could do with a lot less brand new and a whole lot more pre-loved.

Bathroom sanctuaries – the not-to-be-forgotten frequented space We hate to admit that we spend lots of time in our bathrooms, but it is a fact, especially if you do your hair and makeup in there and occasionally take a very long hot bath.

Spa-like, Zen-inducing bathrooms have risen to stardom on socials, and while looking at toilets is not my idea of a good time, what surrounds them gets me excited. Neutral pastel colours, plants, pretty tiles, candles and large bath mats sum up the sanctuary loo trend, and investing in these frequented spaces is definitely welcome as we enter 2024.

The frame TV – spoiler alert, you don’t need the flashy Samsung one I am an advocate for not designing your living space around a TV. While we might spend a whole bunch of time in front of it, there is no need to have a lifeless black screen be the nucleus of your home. The frame TV entered the chat this

year, boasting a sleek wall-mounted design that doubles as a piece of customisable art and, at the touch of a button, ready for a series binge. Only thing is, all smart TVs can be frame TVs, so you really don’t need to go out and buy the Samsung one. Whether your existing screen is wall-mounted or standing on a console, you can quite effortlessly showcase your favourite photography or artworks on it, adding dimension to your living room and perhaps a zero to your electricity bill.

WHAT WE ARE LEAVING BEHIND: Neon signs – and the apostrophe s dilemma Listen, I love coloured lighting, specifically of the warm orange and occasional purple variety. And not all neon signs are as tacky as a lightning bolt or “this must be the place”. In fact, some can be pretty darn cute. As with all design trends, discretion and a split second’s thought on longevity is crucial.

You can totally add coloured lighting to your space without having to spell out the 2023 equivalent of “live, laugh, love” in fluorescent strips. This past year plenty of bridal couples went for a neon sign of their last name with the foresight of adding it to their home after the big day. Adorable, I’d say! Please just grammar-check whatever you are getting commissioned. Plural surnames don’t have apostrophes.

Marble Everything – the Flintstones’ worst nightmare Kitchens and bathrooms have become victims to this terribly soulless trend. Marble walls, floors, countertops, sinks and bathtubs. To me that’s what an asylum looks like, or the house of a billionaire who refuses to be comfortable in order to keep hustling. Marble is a marvellous material and I strive to one day afford a Calacatta countertop in my kitchen, but we really don’t need to deck out an entire space with slabs of rock. It’s cold, lifeless and feels sterile, like a post-apocalyptic hospital or a childhood fever dream.

Purposefully wrinkled bedding – when nobody has time to iron their sheets It really took my entire teens for me to religiously make my bed every morning, just to find out in my twenties that the “undone” look is trendy. I simply never got behind this trend, which is why I implore everyone to avoid linen bedding that wrinkles just by looking at it. Just think back to the first time you can remember where you got out of a refreshing shower and slid into a crisp bed made up with fresh cotton sheets. Now think about wearing a linen shirt. Not the same, never has been and never will be. Trust me, I don’t iron my bed sheets, yet cotton doesn’t wrinkle the way this trendy bedding does.

Hype coffee table books – yes, I mean the Tom Ford one Coffee table books are beautiful bricks of paper filled with awe-inspiring photographs and illustrations, and the genre has diversified to every field of interest imaginable. But for some reason everyone and their mother wants or has the big black Tom Ford book. If you are interested in fashion, buy the overpriced book by all means, but as we enter 2024, I urge you to look into coffee table books that actually reflect your interests. From architecture and gardening to impressionist and post modern art, there is something out there that tells your guests who you are – if they actually ever care to page through it while you are entertaining. Check out Uncle Spike’s Book Exchange for thrifted coffee table books.

Charene Labuschagne

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LOOK / LISTEN

Our monthly round-up of good books, podcasts, channels, movies and series.

WHAT WE'RE READING The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Untamed

by Glennon Doyle

Ageing Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo decides to tell her life story and enlists an unknown journalist, Monique Grant, to be her confidante. Through seven marriages, Reid crafts a narrative that elegantly intertwines ambition, fame, love and the secrets that shroud a glamorous life. Said to be based on the life of Elizabeth Taylor, the novel's immersive storytelling captures the allure of Old Hollywood with a candid and compelling voice, while delving into the poignant realities behind the scenes.

Part memoir, part self-help, Untamed is a wake-up call for how each of us can begin to trust ourselves enough to set boundaries, make peace with our bodies, honour our anger and heartbreak, and unleash our truest, wildest instincts. In her soulful and tender style Doyle tells the relatable story of growing up as a girl in a man’s world, of divorce and forming a family that does not depend on its structure but on each member’s ability to bring their authentic self to the table. It is a tear-jerking, empowering masterpiece.

Goodreads score: 4.43/5

Goodreads score: 4/5

WHERE WE'RE TUNED IN On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Eugenia Diaz on YouTube

Author, life-coach and ex-monk, Jay's skillful interviews and thought-provoking conversations delve deep into the realms of personal development, mindfulness and meaningful living. His guests range from renowned thought leaders to celebrities and everyday individuals with extraordinary stories. The podcast, fuelled by Jay's eloquence and genuine curiosity, covers a spectrum of topics from mental well-being to societal impact. It is a rich and transformative listening experience for anyone on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

Just two years ago, after growing weary of hustling as a medical doctor, Eugenia and her partner Pepe bought a smallholding in the countryside of Portugal.

In a tiny house, which they built from the ground up, with an organic garden that keeps growing, Eugenia’s weekly videos are cinematic, soothing and simply beautiful to watch. All the inspiration you need to pursue off-grid living, wholesome cooking and sustainable gardening, you will find in her videos.

Our favourite episode is with guest Dr. Gabor Maté, who shares his deep understanding of childhood trauma, vulnerability, grief and emotional distress.

Our favourite episode is #10 Building an Art Studio, Making Flower Balm and Campfire Cooking.

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING Vengeance (2022)

Daisy Jones and the Six

New York City journalist and podcaster Ben Manalowitz finds himself entangled in a web of suspicion and grief when a forgotten hookup, Abby, dies of an overdose. Ben travels to West Texas on the insistence of Ty Shaw, Abby's determined brother, and the two join forces to unravel the truth behind her untimely death. Vengeance is a dark comedy, laced with suspense and an unexpected twist in the plot. The film subtly comments on the cultural disparity between Texas and a place like New York.

The series, adapted from Taylor Jenkins Reid's acclaimed novel, blends documentary-style interviews with dramatic reenactments to tell the story of the rise and fall of a fictional rock band.

Anchored by outstanding performances, particularly from the leads portraying Daisy and Billy, the show captures the essence of the era's rock 'n' roll excesses, creative collaborations, and personal conflicts. The narrative's unique format, resembling a VH1 Behind the Music special, lends an authentic and immersive quality to the storytelling.

Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer: 81%

Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer: 70%

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

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Fallone Tambwe - Maze of memories

Young, talented and making their mark Photography Credit: Shamase Studios | MTC Windhoek Fashion Week

The Rise of Fallone Tambwe and Chanté Jenae

Chanté Jenae - Life at Sea

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oth graduates of the prestigious University of Namibia Art Department, Fallone Tambwe and Chanté Jenae have very distinct aesthetics and a shared vision for an authentic, sustainable Namibian fashion story told in their voices.

If you followed their work from their student days, you would be proud of their growth since then. The two have worked diligently to craft their brand identities, amassing a growing legion of supporters who love their work.

You see, supporting fashion designers in Namibia has become an extreme sport. But somehow, Fallone and Chanté make it easy to keep rooting for them. The two have adopted business models steeped in efficient delivery to their customers.

It should therefore be no surprise that both designers made my list of young designers to look out for at this year’s MTC Windhoek Fashion Week. And they did not disappoint, showcasing excellent collections.

CRAFTING WAVES: CHANTÉ JENAE’S LIFE AT SEA Based in the beautiful coastal town of Swakopmund, Chanté Jenae continuously paints a beautiful picture of slow fashion through her unique perspective. Her debut collection for Fashion Week was no exception, serving as yet another call from the ethical designer to save the environment.

“The collection draws inspiration from the ocean and its wonders, a choice rooted in sustainability,” she explains. “The beauty of the ocean and its intricate ecosystems provide an endless wellspring of creativity,” she adds, clearly inspired by the body of water that her hometown is famous for.

“The fragility of our oceans compelled me to head in this direction. Our oceans face environmental challenges, from pollution to overfishing and climate change. By crafting this collection, I aimed to spotlight these issues and emphasise the urgent need for sustainable practices in the fashion industry.”

To communicate this vision, Chanté opted for natural fibres and explored the significance of fabric waste in her commitment to align fashion with the environment.

“By incorporating elements from Ocean Conservation Namibia, such as fishing lines and ropes, we pay tribute to the beauty of the ocean and serve as a call to action, urging everyone to become stewards of our oceans,” she says.

Life At Sea is a fusion of fashion and environmental consciousness, encapsulating Chanté’s dedication to sustainability. “My commitment to sustainability and aligned values with the brand keeps me going. The Life At Sea collection represents these values, inviting others to join us in creating a world where fashion and sustainability go hand in hand. This shared vision pushes me forward, motivating me to navigate the hurdles in the industry.”

FALLONE TAMBWE EXPLORES THE INTERSECTIONS BETWEEN FASHION AND METAL CRAFTSMANSHIP “This is a conceptual collection which draws inspiration from my journey of self-discovery and exploration. From my

childhood to present-day adulthood, I have experienced events that have shaped me into the person I am today,” says Fallone Tembwe.

The young designer explores themes of identity, belonging, rebellion, stability and love (or lack thereof). Each piece in the collection was thoughtfully curated to embody different aspects of her journey, from the colours and textures to the silhouettes and details. “Overall, my goal with this collection was to help me deal with personal struggles,” she explains.

On her creative process ahead of her fashion week debut, she reveals that it included immersing herself in a visual journey.

She searched for images that resonated deeply with her inspiration. “One particular image that captivated me was a painting by Ismael Shivute, a renowned Namibian metalsmith.

His ability to transform metal into works of art sparked a fire in me, and I knew I wanted to incorporate a few pieces into my collection.”

This realisation birthed the collaboration between Fallone’s vision and the power of metal craftsmanship, extending beyond aesthetics. “It held a personal connection for me. It reminded me of a pivotal moment when I transitioned from the bustling city to the serene surroundings of Groot Aub. In this rural setting, I found myself surrounded by humble zinc houses owned by the locals. With their raw and weathered beauty, these structures became a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness, inspiring me to explore the duality of strength and fragility in my designs,” she reflects.

During her creative journey, Fallone has delved deeper into metalsmithing, experimenting with different techniques and materials. Each piece of metal was meticulously shaped, engraved or textured to reflect the balance between the industrial and the organic, evoking the metallic gleam of modernity and the rich, earthy tones of nature. “Throughout this process, I remained open to unexpected discoveries and embraced the merging of artistic disciplines. The fusion of metalworking techniques, inspired by Ismael Shivute’s artistry and my memories of the zinc houses, culminated in a collection that pays homage to tradition, resilience and the beauty of transformation.”

Someone who is equally excited about these two designers’ Fashion Week debut, fashionista and ethical consumption advocate Disney Andreas, says that she could not be prouder of the two collections. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with both Chanté and Fallone. They are both incredibly talented and the end product of their creativity is immaculate – something I’m proud to have in my closet.”

Fallone Tambwe and Chanté Jenae invite fashion enthusiasts to connect directly for purchase enquiries as the collections prepare to hit the market.

Connect with the designers on Instagram: Chanté - @chantejenae Fallone - @fallone333 Rukee Kaakunga

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

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24

Book Review

Hey you, Liberator – Ndapanda Andreas-Kayoko

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dapanda Andreas-Kayoko's book Hey You, Liberator is a story born from Namibia’s independence. The author has crafted a fictional tale that resounds with the 33 years of the nation's sovereignty.

This book is thought-provoking. Although a work of fiction, the storyline borrows much from the realities, and it will foster dialogue between generations. The characters and events serve as mirrors reflecting the nuanced complexities of Namibia's past and present.

Hey You, Liberator is a compelling book. Its ending leaves The book follows the lives of Helena and the reader with a sense of Andimba, two young Namibians incompleteness, yearning for more. from opposite sides of society.

This may be intentional, however, Despite their different backgrounds, as a metaphor for the ongoing a shared commitment to ethical This book is thoughtnarrative of Namibia. principles and integrity unites them. Helena, an ambitious young provoking. Although lady, holds a degree in Public As Namibia approaches an election in 2024, Hey You, Liberator holds Relations from the University of a work of fiction, the Namibia and is determined to the potential to spark meaningful storyline borrows much build her company, Dunamis, conversations among citizens of all without relying on kickbacks or ages. It is refreshing that Ndapanda from the realities, and influential connections. She set Andreas-Kayoko, an experienced it will foster dialogue up the company after – like many political analyst, uses creativity to young Namibians – finding herself engage readers in the politics of between generations. unemployed after graduation.

Namibia. Hey You, Liberator is an Andimba, on the other hand, is a important read in our current times.

This book can contribute to the lawyer with political ties, but he is collective introspection about the kind of Namibia its people not inclined to leverage his proximity to power for financial aspire to create. gain. Instead, he dedicates his legal career to addressing social issues in society, a choice that disappoints his father, the influential "Big Man" who is positioned as the future Laimi Elago leader of the ruling party, the Liberators.

The fictional storyline draws on many actual events in Namibia, such as the removal of the Curt von Francois statue and the Fishrot case, making it a fascinating read.

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Sights, sounds and scrumptious bream in

Katima Mulilo

TO KATIMA MULILO AND BEYOND FlyNamibia between Eros Airport in Windhoek and Ondangwa, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Lüderitz and Oranjemund, between Walvis Bay and Cape Town, as well as between Hosea Kutako International Airport and Cape Town, Sossusvlei, Etosha, Mokuti, Twyfelfontein and Swakopmund. www.flynam.com

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hunder clouds rumble on the horizon, their dark blue-grey filter adding a distinct moodiness to the lush green landscape that enfolds Katima Mulilo. Birds are chirping, school kids are walking home and a cow calf slowly strolls over the road as we cruise into town, courtesy of a swanky, air-conditioned Toyota Fortuner from Caprivi Adventures. Our first stop, naturally, is the Green Basket Cafe for a wholesome lunch of burgers and schnitzel. Here we acclimatise to the warm, humid weather as anticipation for an adventure along the Zambezi grows.

Katima Mulilo buzzes with an unmistakable border town energy. Locals are shrewd businessmen and women selling goods and alfresco meals under marula trees. The bridge connecting Namibia to Zambia vibrates with trucks and transporter vans, and the river brims with the mokoro canoes of fishermen. But more on that later… First, we check into our abode.

Caprivi River Lodge is a seven-minute drive from the town centre, nestled between mango and frangipani trees on the bank of the Zambezi River. This prime location allows visitors to explore the bustle and culture of Katima, while also getting a taste of adventure so synonymous with this region of Namibia. With only eight chalets, the lodge hones a unique homely atmosphere with wood-carved furniture, an indigenous garden which attracts a host of birdlife, and attentive staff who greet you by name. Each air-conditioned room features a small river-facing stoep, crisp bedding and a spacious bathroom.

No visit to the Zambezi Region is complete without a cruise on its namesake river. This is one of the many excursions offered

by Caprivi Adventures. Our boat trip ventured upstream, where pods of pink-eared hippo peeped from just above the waterline and flocks of African Darter, with their noodle-like necks, congregated on the beaches. The crocodiles remained hidden, as they instinctively do, camouflaged between rocks and greenery.

The very best Namibian sunsets include a few wispy clouds, adding hues and texture to an already brilliant show. We were treated to a technicolour spectrum in the sky that was

mirrored by the Zambezi water. Children waved from the banks, locals fished well into dusk and a soulful sunset bid us adieu on our first day in Katima Mulilo.

With breakfast in our bellies, we set out for the open market in town. From airtime and dried fish to raw cassava and chitenge fabrics, the market is always a great departure point to get a feel for the local fare and support a few small businesses. The scents and sights are a feast of culture – every stall, shop and next corner is rich with years of “business as usual”. It is safe to assume that the Katima Mulilo open market is an ecosystem in itself.

Next, we explored Namwi Island. This expedition presented us with a drive through forest and village, only stopping occasionally for a bright-coloured bird sighting. The final stop was at a lookout point over a calmer part of the river, allowing us a few moments to observe the fluid border with Zambians and Namibians crossing in mokoros and the faint ding-dong of a cow bell accompanying the chirping of insects. It is a lovely place to observe the Zambezi’s beautiful birds and debrief from the organised chaos in town.

Our lunch spot at Passione Restaurant offered a great people-watching vantage point on the top floor of Katima’s strip mall. Over cold drinks and fresh fried Zambezi bream, one could easily spend an hour or two contemplating the comings and goings of the town and its people.

A ceremonious conclusion to our journey on the Zambezi was in order, so we tried our luck with a drive out east to where the largest breeding colony of Carmine Bee-eaters were rumoured to still be nesting. Albeit the end of the breeding season, and our chances of seeing the colony a hit or miss, lo and behold, a large flock of the pink-hued birds fluttered up in the distance. We approached with caution and spent plenty of time watching these ground-nesting avians from a safe distance. To see them descend with moths and other insects in their beaks, beefing up their hatchlings before the long journey north for summer, made for an audiovisual spectacle, truly worthy of bucket lists whether or not you are a birder.

Charene Labuschagne

TAIMI’S TAKE-BACK FROM THE KATIMA MULILO TRIP: My FlyNamibia family knows just how to spoil me with travels! On our most recent trip to Katima Mulilo, I experienced the vibrant buzz of the border town by strolling through the open market, chatting to locals and cruising on the Zambezi River.

Without a doubt the highlight of the trip was our stay at Caprivi River Lodge. My friends and followers know how much I love comfortable and cosy accommodation, and this lodge on the bank of the river, with chalets overlooking the garden, did not disappoint. Their food is top tier, especially the lemon-baked bream we had on our first night, and the sunset cruise with our delightful guide, Daniel, was balm for the soul!

I was ecstatic at the sight of abundant mango trees in Katima Mulilo. Not only do I love the fruit and stocked up on a few at the open market, but the lush trees themselves add a beautiful, tropical allure to the town.

Seeing the Carmine Bee-eaters was another highlight. The birds of the Zambezi Region truly captivated me! I would strongly recommend a visit to Katima for anyone keen on adventure and culture merged into the perfect break-away.

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Your 4x4

T: +264 61 232871 | 24hr emergency no: +264 81 129 3355 E: info@africa-on-wheels.com | W: www.africa-on-wheels.com 28

Wellness

Onset of menopausal symptoms Do I really have to suffer from them from now on?

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Easy answer: No, there are a multitude of possibilities to treat them!

round 80% of women will go into menopause between the age of 48 and 52 years. During this time, you may experience perimenopausal symptoms which can be rather annoying and may interfere with your daily life – and nights! In general, these symptoms can last for 7 to 14 years which is a very long time to go through various uncomfortable sensations. Luckily, most women will not be bothered by any symptoms, other than noticing the alteration in their menstrual periods. But some are not so lucky.

Perimenopausal symptoms consist of hot flushes, followed by spells of sweating which are especially awkward during night times. These will reduce quality sleeping time, which will cause irritability and mood swings during daytime. You will feel tired and depleted of energy, and sleep deprivation can ultimately cause depression. Other symptoms include age- and hormonedependent changes to your skin and hair. Soft-tissue skin tends to be dryer due to reduced blood flow which can lead to urinary bladder infection and worsening urinary incontinence.

The reason behind this upheaval of the female body is the loss of oestrogen and progesterone due to reduced activity of the ovaries. These two female hormones can be measured through a blood test and now even in your saliva. Additionally, it is even more important to rule out other conditions in the body such as thyroid gland dysfunction, lack of vitamins or trace elements.

The good news is that there are many treatment options and remedies available to reduce and even relieve you from your discomfort.

First of all, improve your lifestyle: eat healthy food, avoid alcohol and smoking, don’t overdo it on caffeine, do sport and take time to relax, or even start yoga, meditation or qigong classes.

Dietary supplements such as vitamins (e.g. B6, B12 and D3) and minerals (e.g. calcium) are helpful, and vitamins C and

E, as well as the trace element selenium, have antioxidant properties. The antioxidant activity can be best described as fighting against destructive cells in your body – even possible cancerogenic cells.

Another option to tackle your problems could be found at your quality herbal shop down the road after consulting your specialised doctor. Recommended products may include black cohosh, chaste tree, red clover, primrose oil and many more.

There are also natural plants, roots and mushrooms, like maca and ashwagandha, which can help you to cope with stress and regulate the balance between different control centres in your brain.

Over the last few years, melatonin has become one of the most emphasised hormones to overcome sleeplessness.

Calming effects as well as sleep-inducing activity can be obtained from balm, St John’s wort and passion flowers.

Finally, hormone therapy treatment may be prescribed by your doctor. It can be applied as tablets, patches, gels, creams or even ointments, depending on your underlying medical history. Nowadays, bio-identical hormones are even extracted from soy or yam roots.

There is a huge variety in clinical symptoms associated with perimenopause, but chances are better than ever for you to find the necessary individualised treatment that you need.

Consult your general practitioner or gynaecologist for the best way to help you.

Dr. Bettina Allgaier-Zalto

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At home under a Bushmanland Baobab The Pangolin Conservation and Research Foundation’s new base camp Bumpy roads often lead to the best destinations, especially when accompanied by dense bushveld all around and the sight of a baobab in the distance, protruding far above the treeline. This particular jeep track veers deep into the Nyae Nyae conservancy of Namibia’s northeast and leads us to a crescent koppie – in the nape of its bend a quintessential Bushmanland baobab – for the inauguration of the research base camp of the Pangolin Conservation and Research Foundation (PCRF).

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ust over a year ago, Travel News Namibia joined a pangolin monitoring expedition with PCRF. In a heavy downpour we ventured into the bush shortly before midnight, the illusive pangolins escaping us, staying safe and dry in the burrow at which we were patiently waiting. We wondered whether these shy mammals, which are heavily trafficked for their scales, might merely be folklore.

Yet, returning to this rugged corner of the country on 30 September 2023 to celebrate a solar-powered sage green container station, we know for certain that not only are pangolins real and in danger, but there are also a whole lot of people who are rooting for their safeguarding and conservation. The opening of the PCRF base camp marks a new chapter for the foundation’s Nyae Nyae Pangolin Project (NNPP). It has been tagging and monitoring eight or more resident pangolins since its establishment in 2021.

around the baobab intended for students and conservation professionals to pitch their tents alongside the camp resident’s canvas tents.

Undoubtedly the backbone of the NNPP is the community itself who joined a Namibian braai with song and dance with the donors and supporters of PCRF. The project employs Ju/’hoansi San as pangolin rangers and local custodians of this mammal threatened by extinction. Currently, three locals are full-time employees and a further 11 work on the project part-time, representing five different villages.

The research base camp allows the full-time rangers to access material needed to tag and monitor animals in the area. During the launch each of them received a crisp new uniform, including boots and belts, sponsored

by WWF, to continue their hard work in the field.

The project employs Ju/’hoansi San as pangolin rangers and local custodians of this mammal threatened by extinction.

Fireside and under a full moon, PCRF’s founder Kelsey Prediger shared snippets of the ongoing research project aimed at developing monitoring methodology, establishing guidelines and informing conservation management planning for the species. The wild pangolins of Nyae Nyae represent the first of the species to be researched in open, communal conservancy land, semi-wetland ecosystems and Kalahari broadleaf woodlands.

The PCRF research base camp, set up in a container, provides ample storage for supplies as well as running water, solarpowered electricity and much needed shade from the sweltering sun. Concrete slabs are strategically scattered

Kelsey stresses the integral role that these local rangers play in the NNPP. On one occasion, she was elsewhere in the country on another crucial expedition, when word began to spread among the members of the Nyae Nyae community that somebody local had found a pangolin and intended to slaughter it for a meal.

With incredible speed the NNPP rangers were able to track down the pangolin and its captor, mitigate the situation and successfully tag the animal. This story is testament to the fact that PCRF’s presence in the conservancy has fostered a loyal understanding of the vulnerability of pangolins, where otherwise the community might have considered much worse alternatives after finding a pangolin. The Nyae Nyae conservancy and its people are ever more conscious of conserving pangolins. They understand that children of their soil are employed to protect them, and this in turn brings upliftment for everybody.

First published in the Summer 2023/24 issue of Travel News Namibia magazine. Subscribe to Travel News Namibia here: www.travelnewsnamibia.zinioapps.com

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The Year Book: A review of 2023’s Movers A look back on some of the inspiring leaders that have been featured on 99FM’s Royal Hustlers in 2023; patterns of success, finding meaning and choosing joy.

Selma Kaulinge

Manager of Communication and PR at Nedbank Namibia Selma credits her soaring career to listening to her heart and working hard. There are no shortcuts.

Once you know what you want from life, you have to do the work. Motivated by challenges, she is not as laid back as she appears. “If someone says I can’t do something, I’m probably going to do exactly that”, she says.

Stanley Shanapinda CEO, Telecom Namibia

“Think ahead,” is Stanley’s formula, reiterating the words of his grandmother and godmother from his childhood. “Don’t be satisfied with where you are right now. Where do you want to be? How can you prepare for the future now?”

Fenni Nghikevali

CEO, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Namibia “Be intentional in everything you do, just surviving is not enough,” Nghikevali encouraged people to check their mindset; “your mind determines your success, your accomplishments, your attitude each and every day.”

Rodney Feris

Senior Techno Economist, Namdeb Rodney has some advice for those wanting to live a life of success and contentment: “The one thing that always took me further is the ability to fail forward. Failure is part of success! Do not see failure in a negative lens but see failure as a stepping stone to success.”

Denille Roostee

Group Executive for Marketing at Momentum Metropolitan Limited Namibia While continuously striving for better, Denille is comfortable facing failure. “My imperfections keep me grounded, that’s for sure,” she says. “And every day you get to face your imperfections.” Her advice for those wanting to get where she is: “Failing. Failing often. Once you get comfortable with failing, you’re on the right track.”

Stephanie de Klerk

Josef Sheehama

Credit Manager at Bank Windhoek Josef has the following advice to fellow leaders: “To have productive employees, coach them, don’t promise them things you can’t deliver.”

And as an homage to his mother who always believed in him, he adds, “Have faith in your people.”

Elzine Gawaxab-Mushambi Founder of Impact Tank

Elzine’s inspiration comes from her family and every single Namibian. “As Namibians we are so resilient,” she says. She has hope for what Namibia could be. Through empowering Namibians, Elzine wants to change the narrative of what Namibia and Namibian nonprofits look like.

Garren Smith

Founder of Windhoek Professional Sport Performance Academy Garren has learned to live a life of publicly acknowledging those around him who are inspiring and lifting others up. During his interview with 99FM, he showed his gratitude by giving “shout-outs” to many people: his dad, his high school friends, Cricket Namibia, para swimmer Mateus Angula and other inspiring people he has encountered in his everyday life.

Josefina Nekongo

Manager for Legal Services, Compliance and Risk and the Company Secretary for the National Housing Enterprise Josefina’s career and life advice is simple: be teachable. “You are never too old or too successful for a mentor, she told 99FM, “because there is always someone further along than you.”

Bernard Haufiku

Founder & Chair of Governing Council, Africa Public Health Foundation “We are eating an elephant, so we have to eat one bite at a time.” Haufiku believes in development and improvement from the periphery, more clinics, more outreach by community health workers right where people live, and more capacity building at community level.

Business Consultant, Sanlam Namibia Stephanie is intent on passing on knowledge and staying teachable. “All we can do is to be better than before.” She encourages Namibians to “be better, do better, love better.” She also emphasises the importance of being kind: “Choose kindness – to yourself and to others.”

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This is Namibia

Discovering

Kavango & Zambezi

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This is Namibia

TO KATIMA MULILO AND BEYOND FlyNamibia between Eros Airport in Windhoek and Ondangwa, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Lüderitz and Oranjemund, as well as between Hosea Kutako International Airport and Cape Town, Sossusvlei, Etosha, Mokuti, Twyfelfontein and Swakopmund. www.flynam.com

THE KAVANGO EAST AND KAVANGO WEST REGIONS The Okavango River and its broad floodplains make the Kavango East and Kavango West regions considerably greener than the rest of Namibia. The river forms a natural boundary between Namibia and Angola for more than 400 km and is the lifeline for the Kavango people, who make a living from fishing, tending cattle and cultivating sorghum, millet and maize.

THE ZAMBEZI REGION Formerly referred to as the Caprivi, the Zambezi Region is a fertile wilderness of riverine forests, flood plains, swamps and open woodland created by a complex network of rivers and relatively high summer rainfall. For freshwater angling enthusiasts, canoeists and white-river rafters, Zambezi offers much excitement and challenge.

Well over 400 of Namibia’s bird species occur in this part of the country, and the region is steadily gaining a reputation as a retreat for bird-watchers, nature lovers and specialist travellers. It is also of growing interest to scientists studying the wetlands system and its flora and fauna.

Zambezi, once known as Itenga, was ruled by the Lozi kings until it became part of the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland, today’s Botswana. In 1890, at the Berlin Conference, Germany acquired the territory, named it after the Chancellor, Count Georg Leo von Caprivi, and added it to German South West Africa. The capital of Caprivi was Schuckmannsburg (renamed Luhonono in 2013) until 1935, when it was moved to Katima Mulilo, a name that means ‘put out the fire’. Katima Mulilo has since become a busy tourist centre and gateway to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in Botswana.

Travelling from Katima Mulilo on the B8, you cross into Botswana at the Ngoma border post. The road then traverses Chobe National Park to Kasane, the springboard to Impalila Island where Namibia borders on Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The link to these attractions is the 575-kilometre long Trans-Caprivi Highway, a wide tarred road that has replaced the dusty gravel tracks of the past. The route runs through a region of which one third is a floodplain, and where the population is small and the human impact limited.

Providing access to three state- protected game reserves, it lies in the geographic heart of the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Transfrontier Conservation Area.

PARKS OF THE NORTHEAST

These national parks are well-worth a visit on your journey through north-eastern Namibia. They play host to an abundance of wildlife and beautiful natural scenery: MANGETTI NATIONAL PARK: Situated some 100 km southwest of Rundu in the Kavango

Region, the park extends over some 420 km2 and is managed jointly by the Ukwangali Traditional Authority and the MEFT. Animals seen there include eland, blue wildebeest, African wild dog, leopard and hyaena.

KHAUDUM NATIONAL PARK: a densely wooded wilderness reserve that borders Botswana in the east and can be explored only in 4x4 vehicles. It is the only conservation area in Namibia where the northern Kalahari sandveld biome is protected. The wilderness harbours several big game species and a multitude of birds. Large animals found throughout the park are elephant and giraffe, while predators are lion, leopard, spotted hyaena, and side-striped and black-backed jackal.

MUDUMU NATIONAL PARK: Centred on the Mudumu Mulapo fossil river course, this vast 1 010 km2 expanse of dense savannah and mopane woodlands bordered in the west by the Kwando River, was proclaimed a national park in 1990. The mopane woodlands are at the core of Mudumu, the combination of forest and water sustaining a wealth of wildlife.

BWABWATA NATIONAL PARK: In 2007 the former Caprivi Game Park, proclaimed in 1968, was incorporated into the 6 100 km2 Bwabwata National Park, including the Kwando or Golden Triangle, and the Buffalo and Mahango (the former Mahango Game Park) core areas. This heralded a new generation of parks in terms of an integrated approach towards park management. Bwabwata was designed not only to protect the environment, but also to accommodate the people living in the park.

NKASA RUPARA NATIONAL PARK: The 320 km2 Nkasa Rupara National Park, proclaimed in 1990, has the distinction of being Namibia’s largest wetland area with conservation status. The park is characterised by a complex network of channels, reed beds, oxbow lakes and islands, with the focal point on Nkasa and Lupala, two large elevated areas that punctuate the floodplains.

Find more Namibian travel inspiration at www.thisisnamibia.com Follow @thisis_namibia on Facebook and Instagram for extraordinary Namibia travel stories.

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Kootenai and Salish Native American by descent, Hazen Audel, is an adventurer, artisan and biologist. He has spent the last 30 years studying nature and anthropology in the field: he has integrated himself into communities and learnt from their practices, living in some of the most remote places on earth and surviving in some of the harshest environments.

Hazen documents his adventures befriending indigenous people in remote regions of the world and living with them.

Season 8 is the latest in his hit series Primal Survivor on National Geographic. Fascinated by African cultures and passionate about nature, Hazen says he loves to see wildlife in the most isolated and remote regions on earth and is intrigued by how people living there survive,thrive and raise their families.

Facilitated by Multichoice Namibia, Hazen engaged with African Media from Johannesburg, South Africa. “We all have a zest for adventure – which is definitely better than a cocaine habit”, he said and explained that he depended on the various tribes to get him as far as he did.

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE "In Namibia? Oh my gosh!”, he exclaimed when asked about his most memorable experience in the Land of the Brave. He got to experience life with the OvaHimba and Khoisan communities and describes them as warm and very accommodating.

Hazen lived with the Khoisan people for three weeks. They stand out from all the people he came across all over the world, he says. “Their knowledge and where they live is just mind-boggling.” He has used their survival techniques, from building a temporary shelter against the harsh desert winds to leading cattle through the wilderness from one village to another. “The way Westerners are trying to raise their families is all wrong. You have to raise your children in a tribe”, Hazen

says. “Ubuntu is a common theme in this enormous continent of Africa. Everybody has some sort of support for one another even though they come from different lifestyles, have different languages and different cultures. It’s something I want to carry with me wherever I am in the world”.

ECO AND CULTURAL TOURISM OFFERINGS At the 21st African Wildlife Consultative Forum in October last year, the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, reiterated Namibia’s position on eco and cultural tourism. “We have friendly people with their good culture, our wildlife is indigenous and moving freely, we have good infrastructure and hospitality, good food and lots of other activities to offer in the form of eco and cultural tourism”, Shifeta said.

The Minister also pointed out that rural communities are critical when it comes to securing a future for wildlife outside of protected areas in Africa and elsewhere. “In Southern Africa”, Shifeta said, “the community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) programme is the avenue through which communities participate in and benefit from wildlife conservation initiatives”. According to Shifeta, the CBNRM model has so far worked well for the conservation of wildlife and benefiting communities living with wildlife. He added, however, that innovative approaches must be found through governance and other mechanisms to raise benefits to household levels, especially now that households are under pressure due to unfavorable economic conditions.

To experience true Namibian hospitality one has to make time to visit this southern African country with its diverse cultures and one of the most accommodating people in the world. As for Hazen, well, he has learnt a lot through his travels and is now pretty much living off his land growing his own food and waking up every morning excited to see the unknown.

Maggie Forcelledo Paz

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Buzzing to Success Three Generations of Namibian Farmers Turn Award-Winning Beekeepers

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hree generations of farmers, grandfather, father and son, took a beginners beekeeping course after a swarm of bees made a home on their farm. Starting with a single beehive, today they are international award winning Namibian honey farmers.

live in harmony with each other and with nature. That they work together in a team and how each swarm has its own characteristics. I also learnt that they have a short lifespan that doesn’t slow them down as they apply themselves with agility and hard work.”

Kiep, Johan and Josua Lepen quickly learnt how bees are a critical species, responsible for 73% of all the world’s plant reproduction. Bees, and not just honey bees, are pollinators and pollinators are vital for food production and healthy and diverse ecosystems. Almost one out of every three bites of food we eat is because of a pollinator. We literally depend on bees for our survival.

Gretchen adds that the apiculture industry in Namibia is in need of development. “There are no industry systems policies or protections here and this is why we need industry development with extreme urgency. As the driest sub-saharan African country, with frequent droughts and infrequent rainfall which directly influences sustainable agriculture practices and the economy, people in Namibia are not connecting the dots.”

In Namibia, with our dry ecosystem, bees are vital as they ensure the reproduction of vegetation in the natural environment. This includes vegetation that combats desertification as well as the unique fauna only found here. Bees can also boast being of the best environmental indicators, being a visible link to the health and wellbeing of our environment.

The Beekeeping Association of Namibia with their mandate to develop the local industry, is hoping to change this. Gretchen shares that they are grateful for sponsors such as FNB Namibia who through their FirstRand Namibia Foundation hosted a honey-judging and tasting event in Namibia. It was from this event that the Beekeeping Association of Namibia encouraged the Lepens to submit an entry to the National Honey Show in England.

Despite our low levels of rainfall, Namibia has 342 bee species with 64 species that are unique to Namibia, and bees are found throughout the country.

The Lepen farm can be found in South Waterberg, in an area characterised as thorn tree savanna, where the bees source their nectar from the natural vegetation in the Waterberg Biosphere, which is fundamentally a dry deciduous forest.

Here husband and wife, Johan and Liezl Lepen have beehives under a large Camelthorn tree in their yard.

The honey these bees are producing is exceptional, and has been recognised on an international platform at the world’s most prestigious honey competition. The National Honey Show is held in London, England and attracts beekeepers from all over the world to compete for the much coveted trophies. With more than 2400 entries, attendees include beekeepers from across the globe looking to celebrate the art and science of beekeeping.

According to Johan when he received the results of the competition, “the joy was overwhelming.” The category that Johan and Liezl’s honey was entered into had entries from 39 countries including Chile, South Africa and Oman. But it was the Lepen honey that took the second place position.

“Our Namibian honey has achieved second place. I could not believe it, it felt so unreal” says Johan.

Gretchen Burmeister from the Beekeeping Association of Namibia, notes that this win is very important because it helps to put the spotlight on bees. As she explains, “Our lives depend on bees, and Namibia is not too dry for them.”

Bees are among the most fascinating creatures on our planet, mighty pollinators who play a critical role in supporting the health and abundance of our ecosystems and agricultural landscapes. As Johan explains, “what I have learnt in a short time has exceeded my wildest expectations. I learnt how bees

Gretchen explains that with local awareness and more sponsorship the Beekeeping Association of Namibia plans on completing a survey which will assist them in demonstrating how bees are needed for sustainable agriculture, and this in turn will help them to advocate for local market protections.

Currently with support from the government, but with no budget allocated to their projects, they are fully reliant on the public and private sector support. Gretchen goes on to share that "in Namibia there is a need for collaborative efforts to pull any fractured pieces together. This is a specialised industry with a need for local experts, further knowledge and skills transfer.”

This situation is not unique to Namibia, Gretchen adds that “throughout SADC the apiculture industry is underdeveloped, and there is a need for collaborative efforts. While bees cross over political boundaries to bring life, we will now also do the same for them with SADC collaborative efforts planned for the future.”

With their holistic approach to pollinator protection, Gretchen explains that, “beekeepers are needed throughout Namibia, as they are the strongest advocates for all bees and pollinators.” She recommends that if you are interested in bees and beekeeping, that you start simply by going out into the field with a professional beekeeper. She explains that this will show you what beekeeping is all about and is a transformative and highly recommended experience.

While bees maintain and support life on earth, this team of avid bee supporters are helping to put bees and their plight into the realm of public awareness. Johan says that he hopes that more Namibians will join their cause and start their own beekeeping hives. He adds that “we should take good care of bees because they take good care of us.”

Kirsty Watermeyer

If you’re interested in beekeeping, or have any questions related to bees in Namibia, the Beekeeping Association of Namibia is happy to help. Find them via their website: www.beekeepingassociation.com.na or their email address: info@beekeepingassociation.com.na

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OUR SERVICES PowerCom provides services using a B2B model to CRANlicensed operators • Tower co-location • Tower space • Yard space • Floor space • Power (new towers) Managed services: Rooftops and third party co-location PowerCom forms strategic partnerships with on-board clients on third party towers and elevated buildings in urban areas.

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5. Site Maintenance: This entails regular maintenance of all communication towers to esure tower safety and asset longevity.

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Beatus Amadhila Chief Executive Officer PowerCom Namibia

Economic Pulse

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2024: The year of elections

024 will see an unusually high number of large and geopolitically significant economies hold elections. According to Bloomberg, voters in countries representing 41% of the world’s population and 42% of its gross domestic product will have a chance to elect new leaders during the year. What makes the various elections particularly noteworthy is the fact that they are set to take place against a backdrop of heightened international tension and fragility and will shape global affairs during the second half of the decade.

Countries heading to the polls in 2024 span a spectrum in terms of size and influence, ranging from resource-rich nations such as Indonesia and Venezuela, politically unstable South Sudan, geopolitical hotspots Taiwan and Pakistan, and several western territories such as the US and the UK. While each election will grapple with its distinct issues, overarching global themes are likely to emerge, influencing not only the respective nations but also casting an impact on Namibia and South Africa, both of which are also slated for elections in 2024.

Of all the elections in 2024, the one that will probably dominate the concerns of investors and foreign governments is that of the United States. Both the leading candidates for their respective parties (Donald Trump for the Republicans and Joe Biden for the Democrats) have significant vulnerabilities.

A Biden victory would provide continuity of current policies, but he is regarded by many as too old to serve as president.

A formidable running partner as vice president would help his campaign, but Kamala Harris has been a disappointment to blue supporters thus far. Meanwhile, a victory for Trump would probably see a reverse of Biden’s policies and could weaken Western unity. In addition, US foreign policy would be less predictable, especially regarding the Middle East and Russia.

Even if Trump does not secure the presidency, his expected role as the Republican candidate means that his campaign rhetoric and influence could create significant global uncertainty. These uncertainties typically influence investor sentiment and could lead to a weaker rand and higher interest rates on South African (and by extension Namibian) government debt, as investors withdraw funds from emerging markets which they see as relatively riskier and instead opt for “safe havens” in the form of developed countries.

The presidential election in Taiwan in January will be another geopolitically sensitive one. The island’s posture towards mainland China will dominate the election. The governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will be seeking to secure a third consecutive term in office. Considering the DPP’s preference for Taiwan’s de facto independence, a potential third term for the party could signify heightened crossstrait tensions over the next four years. This, in turn, would contribute to increased tensions between China and the United States.

Confronted with escalating Chinese aggression, the opposition parties (the Nationalist Party and the Taiwan People’s Party) would meanwhile adopt a more compromising stance towards China. Should the DPP retain the presidency, the likelihood of losing its majority in Taiwan’s legislature during concurrent assembly elections poses a challenge, potentially hindering the passage of laws targeting Chinese influence or budgets aimed at increased defence spending.

Elections which should have less of an impact on Namibia include the United Kingdom’s, which is the country most likely to see a change of ruling party, although the margin of victory for the Labour Party may be narrower than opinion polls currently suggest. India’s general election is due to start in April, and it is widely expected that prime minister Narendra Modi’s conservative Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party will secure a third consecutive victory, which would continue to prioritise business-friendly reforms.

Closer to home, South Africans are likely to head to the polls in May. Support for the ANC, which won 57% of the vote in the last election, has fallen below 50% according to certain recent polls, raising the likelihood that the party will need to negotiate with a group of smaller parties to form a coalition. An ANCEFF alliance seems unlikely at this stage but cannot be entirely ruled out, especially if the ANC needs to make up more than 10 percentage points. Such a coalition will rapidly deteriorate investor confidence as it increases the likelihood that radical populist policies may be introduced. If the ANC wins by a slim majority, the policy-making process and policy content should remain largely unchanged. The South African election will undoubtedly be closely watched by investors around the world and could bring with it exchange rate volatility.

Locally, the next presidential and National Assembly elections will be held in the latter part of 2024. The ruling SWAPO party elected Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the party’s vice president at its 6th Congress in 2023, paving the way for her to become the country’s first female president as president Hage Geingob has reached his limit of two terms in office.

She is generally seen as a relatively steady hand, although the possible implementation of certain controversial policies such as the Namibia Investment Promotion and Facilitation Bill and National Equitable Economic Empowerment Framework could derail investor sentiment that has been building up following the oil discoveries in 2022.

2024 will undoubtedly be a pivotal year for global politics.

While the outcomes of many of the elections are unlikely to surprise, the results of some large economies still hang in the balance. The outcomes of several of these elections should not have a direct impact on Namibia, but as explained above, the uncertainty surrounding them may have an effect on the exchange rate and borrowing costs.

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Danie van Wyk

NETWORK

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The Africa Millimetre Project Namibia’s entrance into space

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he sky above Namibia is so clear that you can see deep into our galaxy with the naked eye.

With the Africa Millimetre Telescope (AMT), to be mounted in the Gamsberg area, the country will enrich its astronomic research and value.

The idea was born in The Netherlands by professor Heino Falcke of Radboud University in Nijmegen. He works on the virtual telescope (referred to as the Event Horizon Telescope or EHT) with the size of the earth that imaged black holes for the very first time. Already in 2016 he and his Dutch colleagues realised that a telescope in the Southern Africa region is much needed for improving these images.

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ENTRANCE INTO SPACE "We are more and more together in the world, we have the same questions. This telescope is an opportunity for people to link up”, says Hartmut Ruppel. He is a lawyer and former Namibian Politician in the SWAPO party and one of the ambassadors for the AMT project. “Namibia will benefit greatly from the project. Students will have opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t have had. The AMT being part of the Event Horizon Telescope has a big entrance into space. A project like the Africa Millimetre Telescope will be a testimony. It will help people open their minds, becoming more sensitive to how wonderful everything could be. Let’s try harder to become closer to each other and be more human.”

IMAGES OF BLACK HOLES Marc Klein Wolt, director of the AMT project, explains why Namibia is the place to be for this project. “The connection with UNAM is one of the reasons, but even more it provides for an extra telescope in the EHT network on exactly the right spot that makes this virtual telescope more powerful – so we can produce better images of black holes.”

Namibia has a lot to offer. First of all, the relevant natural resources of Namibia are unique: clear, dark nights and a dry location. Furthermore, from Namibia the galactic centre, where the black hole lives, is directly visible right overhead.

SAND AND BUSHES The first time Klein Wolt visited Namibia (i n 2019), he was shocked. “I landed in the middle of nowhere. It was hot and all I could see was sand and bushes. I couldn’t imagine ever liking this place. There was not much to see outside the airport in Windhoek. I couldn’t help but wonder: why am I here? But after travelling around the country for two weeks, I found it hard to leave Namibia. It has gotten under my skin and by now it feels like home.”

LIKE A PAINTING The project already has a PhD student in (and from) Namibia.

Lott Frans is in his fourth year of physics and geology. He recalls a visit to the Chuno Hochmeister Observatory in Windhoek.

“The moon was out and I saw the biggest craters I had ever seen. It was like a painting, like someone painted the moon on the lens of the telescope – that was what made me want to study space, really.” He had almost finished his degree by then and he signed up for the DARA program. “It was so interesting! I learnt how much work there is in those small images we get to see of space. I got even more fascinated than I already was. And knowing my own background and looking at the younger people coming after me, I know that I want to share my skills with others, too”, Frans says. He is one of the UNAM-students who travel around the country with a

mobile planetarium to create more awareness of space and our place in it.

VISIBILITY AND IMPACT Klein Wolt says, “When we thought about building this telescope, I immediately thought about creating an impact in Namibia. I never wanted to just build it and then leave it at that. We don’t need it for a hundred percent of the time for our science goals, so now we are working with Namibian scientists to plan their own research with it.”

To prepare the next generation of Namibian scientists and engineers, Klein Wolt wants to engage the young nów. “This is the reason why we brought a mobile planetarium to Namibia, but also to show that we are sincere about this project and test out how an idea like this is received by the public. It’s something small for us to do, but it creates a lot of impact and visibility.

Hopefully that encourages people to trust us that we are trying to do something good. We are using Namibia’s natural resources, so we want to bring something in return”, Klein Wolt emphasises. “Before we had all of the funding ready for the telescope, it was mostly just big plans and words. Now that we take the planetarium around the country, and more than 12,000 children have been inside, it is much more tangible and real.”

METEORITES AND FALLING STARS “On a small scope, the AMT is a good project for Namibia for its value for the economy and the skills level for the country.

On a broader scope this is also good for Africa, for it will allow us to train our own people”, Frans explains. “And on a much larger scale: the Event Horizon Telescope, in which the AMT is an important shackle, is a project I want to be part of because of the science that is involved. This is big science that is good for the country and for the people who will walk in our footsteps. You know, my granny is 92 years old. When I visit her, she lets me tell her about the sky above us, that doesn’t cease to amaze me – and her too. I get to explain to her, in our own language, that there are more stars like our sun, about the celestial bodies we see, about meteorites and falling stars – which actually are not stars but rocks. It’s beautiful to be able to explain this to someone so special to me.”

WHERE IS OUR PLACE? “This is about the relationship of time and space and where we as humans fit into all of that: a fascinating question”, says Ruppel. “A lot of science will be informed by more and more knowledge. Figures and facts: they require telescopes.

It’s a hugely complicated journey and we don’t know where this will end. Pondering where we come from, where is our place in this? We are small in the bigger scheme of things: that quest is huge. It is driven by people coming together, raising these questions.”

The Africa Millimetre Telescope (AMT) is a project run by Radboud University (the Netherlands) and the University of Namibia to build a 15-metre size radio telescope on or near the Gamsberg mountain. This telescope will be unique – it is the first completely newly built facility to be part of the Event Horizon Telescope, the project that realised the historical first image of a black hole, and it will be the only telescope of its kind in the whole of Africa. An integral part of the AMT project is a social program which includes a mobile planetarium: an inflatable dome that can host up to thirty children at a time for interactive shows on the wonders of the universe. FlyNamibia together with Nedbank, Gondwana, the Lithon Foundation, Minds in Action, Ineos Grenadiers, the Namibia Science Society, Gree, Perfect Glass and Edu Vision are proud sponsors of the AMT mobile planetarium.

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From begging to

Contributed

OWNING A BUSINESS

Klerence /Noariseb (holding a plate) serves a customer, while his business partner, Jonathan Eiseb (wearing a striped T-shirt), looks on.

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hildhood friends Jonathan Eiseb and Quinton Beukes started a business selling cooked meat and chicken feet around Wanaheda’s Oshango area in Windhoek. The duo has since employed two more people, and they aspire to bring change to the community they grew up in, where unemployment is high among the youth and many are involved in criminal activities. Eiseb and Beukes started their business in October 2023 because they grew tired of begging on street corners.

Forty-year-old Eiseb, a father of two, explained that he could not simply blame the government for not providing employment. Instead, he decided to start a business to provide for his family. Eiseb calls on the government to assist those who are making an effort to help themselves.

“I have been walking around here in Windhoek and watching Kamberipa (Street) in Herero Location. Wherever you walk, you see pots, like every second house has a pot. That is how I came back and sat with (assistant) Klerence and told him that we also need a pot,” says Eiseb.

Eiseb’s business partner, Beukes, also encourages young people to engage in productive activities instead of sitting at home or begging.

“What I want to advise the youth is to not just sit on your chair and wait for something. You have to stand up and do something – that’s how you can liberate yourself. There will be people coming in with some donations, not grants. Someone might say: ‘Okay guys, you are doing great stuff, you can have these pallets.’ And then you can make some chairs and tables for your customers to sit on,” says Beukes.

Twenty-three-year-old, Klerence /Noariseb, who is employed as an assistant at the business, says he uses his income to buy toiletries and bread for his children. /Noariseb, like his employers, also grew tired of begging and is enjoying the freedom of taking responsibility for himself and his family.

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From pages to possibilities Homegrown storybooks for Namibia’s children

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n the urban slums of Namibia, where poverty and limited access to resources are a daily reality, early literacy and a love for reading are critical for children. These informal settlements are marked by overcrowding and limited educational facilities, creating substantial challenges for young minds. Hilma Weber, an advocate for change, is working on an initiative to bring the joy of storytelling to underprivileged children in these communities.

In 2019, Hilma established the Play for All early childhood development programme under Development Workshop Namibia. During her visits to early childhood development centres in disadvantaged urban and rural areas, she noticed a significant lack of reading material for children.

This shortage was inhibiting children from accessing the fundamental knowledge and imaginative experiences that reading provides.

Driven by her belief in the importance of access to resources in addressing inequality, Hilma began collecting books from generous donors and her personal library. She started visiting these centres to read to the children, witnessing their excitement during these reading sessions. This experience inspired her to create children’s storybooks tailored to the experiences and aspirations of these children.

to them. Kindergarten teachers have shared stories of the children being excited to use the child-friendly atlas to show their friends where their parents work or come from, to choose which are their favourite animals, favourite houses, favourite landscapes, and to play the game of “find the Namibian flag” in the different pages of the book. “Children from more privileged backgrounds can learn about their country by going on holidays with their families. However, the children from less privileged backgrounds cannot,” says Hilma.

But the work does not stop there. Hilma is currently working on additional storybooks centred around socio-emotional wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem. She is also on the verge of launching a non-profit initiative, which aims to gather and develop content for African children, produce storybooks and provide learning material to enhance access to children’s resources. While these books are donated to underprivileged children, they are sold to more financially secure families and visitors to Namibia. The proceeds from book sales support Development Workshop Namibia’s ongoing efforts to enhance early childhood education in disadvantaged communities through the Play for All programme.

Hilma Weber’s work goes beyond mere storytelling; it is a testament to the transformative power of reading and imagination. Through Children from more her dedication and commitment, Hilma’s motivation for writing she is sowing the seeds of curiosity privileged backgrounds can children’s storybooks stems from and knowledge in the hearts and learn about their country her own upbringing in a small minds of children, supporting village in northern Namibia. She children’s self-development and by going on holidays with wanted to provide underprivileged their understanding of their world. their families. However, the children with literature that She believes that the magic of could inspire them to imagine a reading is not only a means of children from less privileged world beyond their immediate exploration but also a key to backgrounds cannot. surroundings, and for the children empowerment and change. In of Namibia to understand what every word, illustration and page, is so special about their beautiful Hilma’s mission brings the world country and to have pride in of reading to underprivileged being part of it. children, offering them access to diverse and inclusive stories that inspire curiosity and knowledge for generations to come.

Recognising the importance of early literacy, along with a sense of place and pride in one’s country, Hilma has published four children’s books with a focus on fostering These books are for sale if you'd like to support the a love for reading, while also revelling in the beauty and programme. For more information into the work carried our wonder of Namibia. One notable creation is My Children’s

by Development Workshop Namibia, explore our website at Picture Atlas of Namibia, which introduces young readers to www.dw-namibia.org. the country’s geography, culture and natural resources in an easily understandable format. These books aim to level the playing field between underprivileged and privileged children.

Hilma’s efforts extend beyond book creation. She ensures that these resources are distributed free of charge in informal settlements. Through Development Workshop Namibia’s Library Box Project these books, together with a range of other story books in local languages, are provided to centres and also distributed free of charge through reading events and to parents of young children. The kindergarten children and teachers love the books as they can immediately relate

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Photography Credit: Marcus Westberg

Anderson Yanda in her food circle in Masambo Village.

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Conservation starts on a

FULL STOMACH Improving agricultural practices in communal conservancies It is early morning in Malengalenga Village in the Zambezi Region. Kazi Kumukwake, a lead farmer in the Dzoti Conservancy, and her older brother are on their way to her twohectare plot to harvest beans, watermelon and pumpkins. She also grows maize and sorghum, which will be harvested in a few weeks. Despite the erratic rainfall this season, her plot has yielded enough to meet her own household’s needs and a surplus that will be sold to others in her community.

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azi is part of a long-term training programme, the Multiplier Support Programme (MSP), where she learnt about organic agricultural practices such as mulching and improving soil quality through compost application. Kazi uses her income from selling fresh produce to support her mother, two brothers and two sons. During the drier winter months, Kazi focuses her efforts on her backyard garden (known as a “food circle”) where she grows carrots, beetroot, tomatoes and spinach among fruit trees such as guava, mango and papaya. Kazi also owns six head of cattle, which are integrated into her farming system by supplying manure and transporting reeds, grass and poles.

FARMING AND CONSERVATION IN NAMIBIA’S COMMUNAL CONSERVANCIES An estimated 9% of Namibians live in communal conservancies. These were established by communities wanting to conserve and use their natural resources sustainably. In conservancies, wildlife-based industries such as tourism and hunting play a vital role for creating jobs and generating income for community benefits and development projects. However, the majority of community members in these areas are also farmers who plant crops and raise livestock for food, to earn extra income from selling surplus produce, and for traditional purposes. Namibia’s communal conservancies thus provide an ideal testing ground to show how conservation and agriculture can complement, rather than contradict, each other.

Combining conservation and agriculture is counterintuitive for some, since the agricultural sector is one of the main drivers of biodiversity loss, land degradation, human-wildlife conflict and climate change worldwide. The combination of practices such as tilling or ploughing, fossil fuel use in agricultural systems, using synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, and the mass production of livestock in feedlots accounted for 18% of the total greenhouse gas emissions in 2020. Few people realise that agriculture could be part of the solution to these challenges, if practices change to working

with ecological processes to grow food whilst avoiding land degradation and biodiversity loss.

Sustainable agriculture is an umbrella term for several environmentally friendly agricultural approaches: conservation agriculture, organic agriculture and agroecology. Conservation agriculture focuses on three main principles: minimum tillage to reduce soil disturbance, permanent organic soil cover and diversification of crop species. Organic agriculture aims to enrich the soil using natural forms of fertiliser (e.g. compost, cow manure and urine) and integrated pest control systems rather than ecologically harmful chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

Agroecological practices expand on these concepts by capitalising on the unique socio-economic and ecological context where each farm operates to adapt the production system to its environment.

In Namibia’s northern regions the sandy soils are inherently deficient in organic matter. That has a direct impact on water holding capacity, nutrient availability and microbial life. This in turn reduces agricultural productivity, leading to lower-than-expected yields that farmers try to compensate for by shifting cultivation every few years and clearing more land. Sustainable agriculture aims to increase soil fertility over time, leading to increased production on the same land. This is especially important in communal conservancies, where communities set aside potential farmland for wildlife to allow tourism to develop and provide alternative livelihoods.

Reducing the amount of land needed for agriculture thus reduces competition between these two important sectors.

The Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF), which supports communal conservancies in several parts of the country and has over a decade of experience in agricultural projects, established its Sustainable Agriculture Programme in 2020 to expand its work in this area. This programme focuses on communal conservancies in the Kavango and Zambezi regions, since local communities living there rely heavily on crop and livestock farming for their food security.

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Tanaka Muradzikwa

A densely planted food circle, as developed by the Kambashu Institute, allows for a diverse crop of vegetables for household consumption with minimal water requirements.

Tanaka Muradzikwa

Phillip Gammo and Anderson Yanda prepare a liquid manure fertiliser.

PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE THROUGH LOCAL CAPACITY BUILDING Despite the benefits of sustainable agriculture in terms of improving productivity, decreasing costs of agricultural inputs (e.g. fertiliser) and reducing the need for land, uptake of these practices remains slow. This is likely attributable to the lack of information available to the communities on these practices, which leads to misconceptions and subsequent resistance to change. Overcoming this challenge is central to NNF’s work in this region.

One common misperception is that organic agriculture is defined by what it is not: i.e. ‘not using chemical inputs such as fertilisers and pesticides’. Since subsistence or small-scale farmers usually do not use such inputs because they cannot afford them, some believe that they are organic farmers by default. The fact that these farms often produce lower yields than commercial farms that use chemical inputs is seen as ‘evidence’ that organic farming leads to reduced yields.

Instead, organic farming involves replacing chemical inputs with natural ones that can be just as effective in the short term and even better in the long term.

While conventional agriculture is input-intensive, sustainable agricultural practices are knowledge-intensive.

This gap in knowledge can be addressed by bringing in experts or trainers from elsewhere in Namibia, but this is a costly undertaking due to travel distances involved.

Training is thus reduced to once-off workshops with limited follow-up training sessions and no long-term mentorship.

Furthermore, external trainers cannot always fully relate to local conditions and constraints. Since farming is an ongoing learning process that involves unexpected challenges and environmental changes, continued information exchange and mentoring by people who farm in the same area is essential.

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Celebrating the Multiplier Support Programme graduation in August 2023 in Katima Mulilo To address this issue, NNF has adopted the Multiplier Support Programme, a new model of promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The programme trains active community members with experience and a keen interest in farming who show a willingness and aptitude to share their knowledge with peers.

These local champions are first provided with intensive training on sustainable agriculture to give them an in-depth and holistic understanding of these concepts. Next, they are taught how to design and select relevant training content for farmers in their area, deliver it effectively, and plan logistics and administration for training events. Once trained, they are known as Community Extension Officers (CEOs). CEOs are more than just lead farmers: they are independent consultants who can offer their services to other local farmers and partner organisations.

USING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE TO ADDRESS OTHER CONSERVATION CHALLENGES Human-wildlife conflict is rife in the Zambezi and Kavango regions, with crop fields being raided by elephants, buffaloes and other herbivores, while livestock are killed or injured by predators. An agroecological approach to farming reduces conflict with herbivores that cause crop damage by respecting existing wildlife corridors and not farming in those particular areas, thereby promoting coexistence.

Conflict with predators can be reduced by keeping livestock overnight in enclosures known as “kraals”. The natural fertiliser produced in kraals in the form of animal manure and urine can be used on crop fields and in gardens.

Manure is deposited in any kraal, but the nutrients break down if exposed to sun and rain, which is the norm in opentopped kraals. By putting up a roof over part of the kraal that attracts animals to its shade and protects the manure

A COMMUNITY EXTENSION OFFICER’S TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE Phinny Muyoba lives in Kena Village in the Zambezi Region where she has a small plot of land with her husband. Phinny was invited to join the Multiplier Support Programme (MSP) in 2022, a programme implemented by the NNF under the Knowledge Hub on Organic Agriculture in Southern Africa (KHSA). KHSA is part of the continent-wide Knowledge Centre for Organic Agriculture (KCOA), designed to support multipliers through capacity building, creating networks and disseminating knowledge and information on organic agriculture and agroecology.

Phinny Muyoba and her daughter.

Living soil - soil life is transforming organic matter into nutrients available to plants. and urine deposited there, farmers can create a ‘’deep litter system’’. The shaded area is carpeted with dry organic matter (e.g. grass) or kitchen waste that binds nitrogen and other volatile nutrients, and is ready for collection and composting before being used as natural fertiliser.

The Kwando Carnivore Project has been assisting farmers in this area with erecting mobile kraals using shade net. Not only has it successfully reduced predation on livestock, but by moving these kraals over crop fields (every 10 days to four weeks depending on the size and number of cattle) the manure is also deposited where it is needed. Yields on fields where mobile kraals were used have increased by 100-300% when compared to other fields. This effect can last for up to five years.

Another conservation challenge in this area is deforestation.

Agroecological approaches reduce deforestation by incorporating trees into gardens and crop fields and by increasing productivity, thus reducing the need for clearing more land. Another benefit is water conservation, since less water is required on smaller fields where mulch and compost reduces the rate of evaporation. Reliable access to water is a problem for farmers who do not have boreholes and must therefore pay for water piped by Namwater. These farmers often run into debt by not paying water bills.

AN INTEGRATED AND COLLABORATIVE APPROACH The NNF and Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation (IRDNC) are jointly implementing a project together with the Kyaramacan Association that represents communities living in Bwabwata National Park. The project focuses on food security and habitat protection, whereby small-scale and subsistence farmers are introduced to

In Namibia the MSP focuses specifically on personal growth and ‘’farming with nature’’. By the end of August 2023, Phinny and her fellow multipliers had undergone six three-day training sessions. During this time, Phinny was mentored to improve her own farming practices and thus grow her capacity to share information and become a mentor in her community.

Phinny has also participated in nutrition training offered by the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN) and GIZ-Farming for Resilience (F4R). Nutrition plays a key role in ensuring food security and health by promoting a diverse diet, often presented as ‘rainbow’ plates: meals that consist of an array of colours from types of food that farmers can grow themselves. This training allows CEOs and other NNF field staff to include information on nutrition in their dayto-day training, outreach and mentoring work that covers organic agricultural practices.

sustainable agriculture approaches and are mentored by local CEOs. In partnership with the Kambashu Institute, which previously focused on communities in the informal settlements around Windhoek, farmers in Bwabwata have been trained on the concept of ‘’food circles’’ in small backyards. A hole for composting material is dug in the middle of a circle of vegetables such as spinach, peppers, pumpkins, carrots and sweet potatoes, with fruit trees planted in a larger circle around the vegetables. Ideally, this circle is placed close to a house where grey water from the kitchen can be used for watering the compost and plants in a way that prevents contamination of the edible parts of plants. This waterefficient system provides fresh nutritious vegetables at the household level, thus improving food security.

Since agriculture is central to the well-being and food security of any community, collaboration between organisations, individuals and government is key to ensuring that agricultural practices align with the overall needs and values of community members. Organic agriculture and agroecology are not only relevant for communities living within conservancies. Any farmer can adopt this approach, whether operating at large or small scales, thus benefiting future generations by looking after and protecting the land and natural resources that exist today.

Vera Corry and Mareike Voigts, Namibia Nature Foundation First published in the 2023 issue of the Conservation and the Environment in Namibia magazine.

Visit www.conservationnamibia.com

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DISCOVER NAMIBIA

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14. Sun Karros Daan Viljoen 15. Sossus Dune Lodge 16. Sesriem Campsite 17. Naukluft Camp 18. Hardap Resort 19. Duwisib Castle 20. Shark Island Resort 21. Fish River Canyon & Hobas Camp 22. /Ai-/Ais Hotsprings Spa 23. Mile 72 24. Mile 108 25. Jakkalsputz

Unearthing the Past

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The Geological Evidence of Climate Change

n the light of rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns it is difficult to ignore the significant transitions taking place on the planet due to climate change. Some call it the crisis of our time, and it is a topic which often sparks controversy. Well, while there might be truth in some perspectives, geological evidence shows that temperature and weather patterns have fluctuated naturally across time scales, ranging from decades to millions of years.

On geological timescales, climate change is caused by changes in the earth’s orbit, quantity of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, axial tilt and precession, ocean currents and carbon dioxide content, plate tectonics and volcanic eruptions as well as changes in land cover and meteorite impacts. Each of these processes is a unique contribution to changes in the earth's climate, but matters are complicated by how they interact with one another. They can cause additional, or reduced alterations in others.

Earth has experienced several major ice ages. During these periods, Earth’s temperature decreased, causing an expansion of ice sheets and glaciers. The oldest glaciation is the Huronian about 2.5 billion years ago. The exact causes of this glaciation are not known, but it is believed to have been triggered by a combination of factors, including reduced greenhouse gas concentrations, changes in solar radiation, and continental plate tectonics.

The end of the Proterozoic era saw another glaciation, known as the Snowball Earth hypothesis. It occurred about 700 million years ago. During these events, the planet experienced near-global ice cover, with ice extending from the poles to the equator. Just as with the Huronian ice age, this event is believed to have been the result of a combination of factors, including reduced greenhouse gas levels, possible changes in Earth's orbit, and a concentration of continental mass near the equator. The release of volcanic gases and weathering processes probably played a crucial role in ending these extreme glaciations.

As the Paleozoic era unfolded, the earth transitioned from a predominantly glaciated state to a warmer climate. This was caused by an increase of oxygen and a subsequent drop in carbon dioxide, most likely produced by the rise of land plants. The Late Paleozoic experienced a significant cooling phase, culminating in the Carboniferous-Permian glaciation (approximately 323-300 million years ago). This glaciation was characterised by extensive ice sheets that covered vast regions of the southern hemisphere, including parts of Gondwana. The glaciation eventually gave way to a warmer climate, heralding the Permian-Triassic transition. During the Cenozoic era, the climate started out warm and moist but

gradually cooled, spanning from about 66 million years ago until the present day.

How do we know about past climates? Well, geological records have preserved a wide range of settings, including marine and lake sediment layers, ice cores, as well as fossil evidence. By using these proxy indicators, geoscientists have been able to reconstruct the long-term climate patterns.

For example, cores taken from ice sheets have provided a record of polar temperatures, precipitation patterns and air composition dating back 120,000 to 800,000 years ago.

Layers of sediment contain remnants of ancient plants and animals which lived during a given time and are now preserved as fossils. The presence of fossilised marine organisms in rocks found in areas that are currently arid indicate that these regions were once submerged under water. Similarly, the presence of coal deposits in regions that are now tropical indicates a significant shift in climate over geological time.

Dendrochronology, the study of tree rings, is another indicator, because it provides insight into past growth patterns of trees. Each ring in a tree trunk corresponds to one year of growth. The width of the rings is influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, precipitation and sunlight. By analysing tree rings from ancient trees or preserved wood found in archaeological sites, scientists can reconstruct past climate conditions. Variations in ring width and density can indicate periods of drought, forest fires or other climate-related events.

Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea”, are sensitive indicators of climate change. The growth of coral reefs is influenced by water temperature, salinity and other factors. When water temperatures exceed certain thresholds, corals undergo a process known as "bleaching”: they expel the symbiotic algae living within them, which leads to their eventual death. Studying the growth patterns and chemical composition of coral skeletons allows geoscientists to reconstruct past sea surface temperatures and identify periods of climate stress or stability.

From a geological perspective the current rate of climate change is alarming. Geological records show that similar changes have occurred in the past – but over much longer timescales, which allowed ecosystems and species to adapt and evolve. The rapid pace of today's climate change may exceed the ability of many species to adapt, which would result in biodiversity loss and ecosystem disruptions. Understanding these geological correlations can help us develop strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve the planet's ecosystems.

Victoria Nakafingo

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Peter Hiskia’s jewellery journey

eople have different tastes. Some are into fancy clothes, others like good wine. Some might be passionate about fine dining while others have a penchant for sophisticated jewellery. Well, Hiskia would appreciate the latter.

Like many other creatives, Hiskia enjoys working at night.

That is when he can create masterpieces, he says. ”During the day there is a lot of noise and there are many distractions.

You can hardly concentrate, especially when you are working on a tight deadline.”

Jeweller Peter Hiskia is no ordinary man. In his trade he is the only one in and around Ondangwa town. This makes him a sort of an icon, but he feels he is far from being that. “I am just an artist like any other creative, using my mind, hands and eyes. However, my creations are totally different from what other artists do here and in other places in the region”, Hiskia says.

He recalls a classic example when he was working on two gold rings for a couple who was to get married on a Saturday at Katima Mulilo in the Zambezi Region. He only had a day to finish the rings and courier them to Katima Mulilo. Hiskia describes his job as a little challenging at times but rewarding in the long run. “It has happened that clients were waiting in their vehicle while I was sweating it out in the workshop. Some unapologetic clients will give you just a few hours to finish their item while they go shopping. Imagine how stressful that can be!”

His career started at a prestigious Swakopmund jewellery shop in 2009, where he trained for three years. His superiors were impressed by his performance and creativity and after completing his training he was offered a position.

Two years later Hiskia branched out on his own and took on several jobs to save money for starting his own company. Going solo, the future looked bright but it was not without twists and turns.

With hard work, God by his side and a little bit of luck, Hiskia’s Ondangwa Jewellery was born about a decade ago.

Although in general it appears as if it is all smooth sailing, there are still headwinds hampering the operations of many jewellers, Hiskia says. “Firstly, some people do not want to take us seriously.

Government does not even give us I am just an artist like grants. And consumers don’t seem any other creative, using to recognise the value of jewellery Sometimes they want to my mind, hands and eyes. items. pay even 50% less for his items However, my creations are than what they would pay at other jewellery outlets.

totally different from what

Hiskia makes different pieces Hiskia wants the government other artists do here... of jewellery – rings, bracelets, to recognise jewellers and start necklaces and pendants. He uses offering them financial assistance different materials and everything so that they can grow their is hand-crafted, of course. He also does repairs and gemstone businesses. With youth unemployment at a staggering replacements. His workshop is at his home in Ondangwa.

35% – according to latest figures from the Namibia Statistics Agency – he would like to create employment for Hiskia has no lack of clients. They are from Ondangwa, compatriots, but he can only do so with sufficient support. neighbouring towns and regions and even from elsewhere in the country. Many of them are preparing to tie the knot and “If I had support I could have more activities going on here. want something unique. Others are fashionistas who simply I would be having more employees including those that I want custom-made pieces. Some of the country’s wellwould train myself”, Hiskia says. He adds that perfect known personalities are wearing his ornaments. jewellery work requires specialised and often expensive equipment that in most cases can only be acquired with Outside the urban centres of Namibia the art of making outside funding. fine jewellery is still unknown to many. “This is a small industry in Namibia”, Hiskia says. “In total, we are just Marx Itamalo about 100 jewellers.”

Hiskia feels that most jewellers are struggling due to a lack of recognition by the relevant authorities and lack of support by the government.

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STRONGER TOGETHER The Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) and AviaDev hosted a collaborative local networking reception for local stakeholders on Tuesday, 7 November at the Mercure Hotel, Windhoek. The event was designed to foster connections and ignite enthusiasm for the AHIF and AviaDev forthcoming conferences, to be held in June 2024 in Windhoek, offering an exceptional opportunity for Namibian businesses, government officials, and industry professionals to explore the vast possibilities within the hospitality and aviation sectors.

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Advertorial

Content Piracy A Fight For African Culture and Heritage When we turn a blind eye to content piracy, we undermine the ability of African storytellers to express themselves.

By fighting to protect intellectual property, we keep local productions viable, and we ensure our people have a voice.

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okwagter, Big Brother Africa, Idols and Shaka iLembe… all of these are expressions of our society, showcased by talented creators and production crews, telling African stories for African audiences.

All are threatened by content piracy.

A nation’s creative output is a fundamental part of its identity. One could even argue that art and creative works are what allows a group of people to define themselves as a nation.

In centuries past, such works of art might have included pottery, sculpture, textile and clothing design, as well as religious and cultural artefacts. Today, these cultural signifiers are still produced, but they exist alongside contemporary art forms that are equally important in defining national culture today.

These modern art forms include film, television, recorded music, websites, virtual environments and a host of other digital content.

Digital channels make it easier to distribute this creative cultural content, and to reach more people. However, the digital economy comes with a significant risk of piracy.

Content piracy is a form of digital theft that misappropriates creative work without fair compensation to its creators and rights holders.

This is the modern face of art theft, and we have all been exposed to it. Piracy can take the form of intercepting broadcasts, showing content that is not licenced, or copying, sharing and selling online digital content on pirate websites.

Tragically, it is the most exciting, most relevant content that is most likely to be pirated.

Digital content piracy is an insidious crime. It may appear to be a minor, victimless offence, but when it becomes rampant it can destroy entire creative industries.

Content piracy is a death blow to local creatives when audiences begin to access their work on alternative channels and legitimate platforms are starved of viewers. Legitimate licence holders are then unable to build businesses based on funding and creating original local content.

This is especially relevant in Africa.

When it is no longer viable to produce local, African content – because it is being pirated – it becomes easier and more financially viable to simply purchase cheap international content from the USA, Europe and the rest of the Global North.

its cultural output is undermined. It becomes a case of rich, industrialised nations colonising the minds of African audiences with generic Western content.

Content piracy supports cultural imperialism. When African people no longer see themselves reflected in the art they consume, it distorts the way they see themselves. Conversely, when Africa stops exporting content to the world, it distorts the way the world sees Africa.

Films, series, television programming… all of this content is about representing culture. If we undermine a country’s creative industries by stealing content, we sabotage their ability to tell their own stories.

The scale of the content piracy problem is enormous.

In the United States, a global leader in content creation, an industry report estimates that digital video piracy is costing the economy between 230 000 and 560 000 jobs every year, and up to $115.3 billion in lost gross domestic product. Imagine the impact in Africa, which is already struggling to make its voice heard!

An Irdeto survey shows that piracy is already taking root. It found that users in five major African territories made 17.4 million visits to the top 10 identified piracy sites on the internet in a single three-month period.

African-based organisations such as Irdeto, Partners Against Piracy (PAP) and the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) are doing excellent work to protect intellectual property and ensure that content creators retain the right to earn a living from their work.

However, it is worth remembering that the war against content piracy is not just a financial one. In many ways, it is a fight for the soul of Africa.

If we allow criminals to steal our creative output, we are allowing them to silence our voice and to destroy an expression of our culture. We must continue this fight and defend our right to make Africa’s voice heard – across the continent, and across the world.

As citizens of Africa, it is our duty to safeguard what belongs to us intellectually. Combat piracy and protect creators by reporting instances of copyright infringement and piracy by sending an email to piracy@multichoice.co.za.

Roger Gertze Managing Director of MultiChoice Namibia

Audiences are then presented with films and shows that reflect the values of the developed world – not Africa. Thereby the idea of a nation expressing itself and telling its stories through

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Cape Town Explored Your First-Time Visitor's Guide

First time in Cape Town? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a guide to the best of what South Africa’s Mother City has to offer.

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Hiking on Table Mountain

ocated at the southwestern corner of the African continent and regularly voted one of the best cities in the world, Cape Town’s appeal lies as much in its mild Mediterranean climate and incredible natural beauty as in the international flair and worldclass service for which it is renowned. Vibrant and multicultural, it has managed to retain an undeniably African character and charm through its people and diverse attractions.

CAPE TOWN’S FINEST: TOPPING THE LIST Iconic Table Mountain is flanked by Devil’s Peak to the east and Lion’s Head and Signal Hill to the west, together forming a natural amphitheatre for the City Bowl and Table Bay Harbour. At the city’s most south-westerly tip is the Cape

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of Good Hope Nature Reserve, covered in endemic fynbos and home to untouched beaches and a healthy population of baboons and antelope. The African penguin colony at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is always a delight and can be visited on foot or by kayak. Offshore is Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his incarceration, where you can take a tour with one of the former political prisoners once held here. Possibly the most photogenic spot of all is the Bo-Kaap, the original Muslim settlement of Cape Town and an area famed for its quaint, colourful houses and cobbled streets. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a mustsee for any plant lover. In season, look out for southern right whales, dolphins, sunfish and seals playing in the bay. To feel like a local, be sure to walk, cycle or run along the Sea Point Promenade. If you would like to hit up one of the beaches, look no further than Camp’s Bay, Clifton or Muizenberg.

Views towards Table Mountain from Bloubergstrand beach GASTRONOMIC GEMS: WHERE TO GET YOUR FILL

GET YOUR CULTURE FIX: MUSEUMS AND ART CENTRES

The Cape’s impressive culinary scene’s strong international influence merges with delicate Cape Malay infusions, traditional African fare and rich delights sourced from the surrounding farmlands. For consistently delicious meals, visit Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia, Black Sheep on Kloof Street and Harbour House in Kalk Bay. Fine dining options include Carne, Salsify and the award-winning La Colombe Restaurant. For more relaxed yet remarkable dining, try Foxcroft in Constantia, Galjoen or The Foodbarn in Noordhoek. Il Leone Mastrantonio, Villa 47, Between Us and Café Paradiso are local favourites. If it’s just a drink you’re after, consider The Gin Bar, The Art of Duplicity, The Athletic Club & Social and Grand Africa Café and Beach, where you’ll sip with your toes in the sand.

Cape Town is dotted with private art galleries, niche museums and intimate theatres. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in the Silo District of the V&A Waterfront is the largest art museum in Africa and showcases works of African and diaspora artists. The Norval Foundation is dedicated to exhibiting 20th- and 21st-century visual art from South Africa and beyond and features a sculpture garden, outdoor amphitheatre and research library. In Woodstock, the Goodman Gallery, Stevenson Contemporary Art Gallery and Blank Gallery feature artists from all over South Africa. For an insightful cultural fix, visit the District Six Museum, Jewish Museum and Iziko South African Museum, as well as the sobering Iziko Slave Lodge.

Views of Table Mountain from the V&A Waterfront

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THE MARKET SCENE: SHOP TILL YOU DROP Cape Town has a variety of markets showcasing local designers, traditional arts and crafts, as well as healthy organic produce. The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock and the Oranjezicht City Farm Market in Granger Bay are the most popular ones, drawing locals and tourists each weekend to the offering of fresh foods, craft brews and unique products that range from homegrown fruit and vegetables to handmade clothing and jewellery. The Mojo Market in Sea Point features food stalls, live music and craft boutiques, while Makers Landing at the Cape Town Cruise Terminal showcases upand-coming foodies. For fine South African products, start at The Watershed at the V&A Waterfront, which houses stalls and stands with high-end designer fashion, jewellery, art and

ceramics. Don’t miss Merchants on Long, AAFRICAA, The Strangers Club and Out of this World for bold African prints and statement homeware pieces that merge contemporary Cape Town with authentic Africa.

NAVIGATING THE CITY: Cape Town is easy to self-navigate, given the anchoring presence of Table Mountain and the shoreline that skirts it. Self-drive enables the best exploration opportunities, especially into the immediate surroundings, while Uber, metered taxis and private transfers are available for city hopping. Do bear in mind that there is no public transport system to be relied on.

Dawn Jorgensen

Taryn Elliott

Traditional Cape Malay Samosas

Boulders Penguins

Bo-Kaap colourfully painted houses

TO CAPE TOWN AND BEYOND FlyNamibia between Eros Airport in Windhoek and Ondangwa, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Lüderitz and Oranjemund, between Walvis Bay and Cape Town, as well as between Hosea Kutako International Airport and Cape Town, Sossusvlei, Etosha, Mokuti, Twyfelfontein and Swakopmund. www.flynam.com

Cape Town Stadium from Green Point Park

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The V&A Waterfront at sunset

Muizenburg Wash Houses

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by Marriott Ondangwa Stay 2 nights Save 15% off Stay 3 nights Save 20% off

Terms & Conditions Apply.This offer also includes 24% discount on shuttle services and happy hour- 50% off beers and selected wine. Pre-booking is required for shuttle services and is subject to availability.

This special cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Present your valid boarding pass upon check in to qualify for the discount. Valid until 31st March 2024.

For more info +264 (0) 65 241 900 fom.ondangwa@proteahotels.com.na

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We manage all aspects of your company’s travel requirements.

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06 January 2021

10 January 1946

15 January 2001

The United States Capitol in Washington DC is stormed by a mob of Donald Trump supporters in the last days of his presidency. The attack was an attempt to halt the certification of the results of the 2020 presidential election won

by Joe Biden. Five people died in the riot, and many more were injured, including over 150 police officers.

The first General Assembly of the United Nations opens with 51 nations represented that day.

Wikipedia goes online. The free encyclopaedia has since become the largest reference work on the internet, created and edited by volunteers around the world.

Celebrate, observe and take part!

01 January New Year’s Day

11 January 1935

22 January 1970 The Boeing 747 takes off on its first scheduled flight.

The flight from New York flying to London heralds the dawn of the jumbo jet age of air travel.

January’s birthstone is the garnet, which is believed to keep the wearer safe during travel.

27 January International Holocaust Remembrance Day

4 6 3 5 9 1 8 2 7

1 5 9 7 8 2 3 4 6

7 8 2 3 4 6 9 5 1

3 2 4 6 7 8 1 9 5

6 1 8 9 3 5 2 7 4

5 9 7 1 2 4 6 8 3

EASY

8

8 3 5 2 6 7 4 1 9

1

9 4 1 8 5 3 7 6 2

4

4

2 7 6 4 1 9 5 3 8

9

5 8 3 1 9 4 7 5 2 6 8 1 2 5 1 7 3 7 8 1 1

HARD

2

3 4 6 1 7 5 9 2 8

HARD

1 7 8 9 3 2 4 6 5

The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.

EASY

2 3 7 4 6 1 1 4 7 8 7 9 1 1 8 2 9 3 2 5 5 4 2 6 5 7 8 9 3

World Day for African and Afro Descendant Culture

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SUDUKO

International Day of Education

24 January

FUN FACTS ABOUT JANUARY:

January was named after the Roman god Janus, the protector of gates and doorways, who symbolises new beginnings and endings. Janus has two faces, one looking into the past, the other into the future.

24 January

4 1 5 6 9 7 3 8 2

British rock band Led Zeppelin releases their debut album, Led Zeppelin.

World Logic Day

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The African National Congress (ANC) is founded in Bloemfontein.

14 January

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12 January 1969

Barack Obama is sworn in as U.S. president and makes history as being the country’s first black head of state.

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08 January 1912

20 January 2009

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Amelia Earhart becomes the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to the U.S. mainland. The dangerous 2408-mile flight across the Pacific Ocean took nearly 19 hours to complete and had already claimed the lives of several flyers attempting the same feat.

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DID YOU KNOW?

This month in history:

FLYNAMIBIA JANUARY 2024

63

Love Namibia

Zambezi's Golden Hour | Have you ever experienced the magic of golden hour on the Zambezi River? Tag your golden hour photos @flynamibia_magazine on instagram.

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Professional Translation We offer the following languages: English Francais Portugues Deutsch 中文

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269677

Time is the greatest gift of all.

We all want more time to spend on the things that are important to us. Whatever those things may be, the good news is that if you invest early, time gives you money. And then, money gives you more time to spend on the things you love. Speak to us to make the most of your time. Call Allan Gray on 0860 000 654, or your financial adviser, or visit www.allangray.co.za.