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At Venture Media, we’re more than just a publisher - we’re a multi-media content creation powerhouse. Our expertise includes awe-inspiring photography, striking videography, impeccable design, and crisp podcasts. With a reputation for excellence spanning three decades, we bring unparalleled storytelling to life.
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Madeleen Duvenhage Windhoek-based writer and occasional poet. Perpetually scouting for hidden gems and offbeat narratives found in the
Rukee Kaakunga A Windhoek-based communications specialist, blogger and freelance fashion writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com
Dr Bettina Allgaier Zalto Obstetrician & Gynaecologist. “At
Maggie Forcelledo
News & Content Editor. Passion and dedication to keep the nation abreast with what’s happening on national and international level.
Muningandu Hoveka Multidisciplinary creative and digital content creator, weaving stories through art, culture and digital media – crafting narratives that connect and inspire.
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FLIGHT NO. DEPARTURE FROM TO ARRIVAL DAYS
WV*4Z8505 06:30 Eros - Windhoek Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo 07:30 Mon, Tue, Fri
WV*4Z8506 08:00 Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo Eros - Windhoek 09:00 Mon, Tue, Fri
WV*4Z8595 16:20 Eros - Windhoek Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo 17:20 Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
WV*4Z8596 17:50 Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo Eros - Windhoek 18:50 Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
WV*4Z8137 10:15 HKIA - Windhoek Katima Mulilo (via Maun) 12:25 Wed, Fri, Sun
WV*4Z8138 13:05 Katima Mulilo HKIA - Windhoek (via Maun) 15:15 Wed, Fri, Sun Lüderitz flights until 30 September 2025
WV*4Z8541 09:00 Eros - Windhoek Lüderitz 09:50 Mon - Fri
WV*4Z8542 14:00 Lüderitz Eros - Windhoek 14:50 Mon - Fri
in Partnership with
4Z344 16:55 Walvis Bay Cape Town 19:00 Sun
4Z320 07:00 Cape Town HKIA - Windhoek 09:10 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
4Z326 10:40 Cape Town HKIA - Windhoek 12:50 Mon-Sun
4Z328 18:15 Cape Town HKIA - Windhoek 20:25 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
4Z329 07:05 HKIA - Windhoek Cape Town 09:10 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
4Z321 09:50 HKIA - Windhoek Cape Town 11:55 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
4Z327 13:40 HKIA - Windhoek Cape Town 15:45 Mon-Sun
Windhoek
The seasonal FlyNamibia Safari schedule will resume on 1 May 2025 and run until 30 November 2025. Our daily shuttle flight operates in a clockwise circuit seven days a week. The exact departure and arrival times are determined the day before the flight and will be communicated directly to lodges, tour operators, and transfer companies. A minimum of two passengers is required per sector. All destinations remain available on a private charter basis.
For more information, contact: Email: safari@flynamibia.com.na
Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei Swakopmund
Swakopmund Twyfelfontein Swakopmund Ongava
Swakopmund Mokuti
Twyfelfontein Ongava
Twyfelfontein Mokuti Ongava Windhoek
Mokuti Windhoek
Sossusvlei Twyfelfontein
Sossusvlei Ongava
Sossusvlei Mokuti
Twyfelfontein Windhoek
Swakopmund Windhoek
Dear Passengers,
Each seat on board a FlyNamibia flight carries more than a traveller. It carries a story, a hope, a dream…and as Namibia’s airline, we are proud to lift those dreams into the sky.
This month, we’re thrilled to introduce the newest storyteller to join our journey: Namafu Amutse, the official Face of FlyNamibia. A teacher, creative, and proud Namibian, Namafu embodies everything this campaign stands for — authenticity, heart, and the kind of storytelling that reminds us why we love this country.
Why did we search for a Face of FlyNamibia? Because we believe that an airline is more than aircraft and destinations. It’s a platform for the people of the nation it serves. Through this campaign, we want to celebrate individuals who reflect our shared values, who express our identity through words, photos, and passion. Namafu, with her warm presence and natural storytelling gift, reminds us why We Rise by Lifting Others. Read more on page 32.
From the passengers in our seats to the pilots in the cockpit and the cabin crew who welcome you aboard — every one of us has a Namibian story. And we are proud to be the wings that help tell it.
This message of empowerment continues beyond our own walls. Last month, the Namibia Airports Company launched the Women in Aviation Forum in Windhoek — a bold step in creating space for women in the aviation sector. The launch preempts plans for a larger summit in 2026. At FlyNamibia, we stand behind this vision. Empowering Namibians from all walks of life — and lifting each other up — is what defines our mission.
And while we’re speaking of dreams, there’s never been a better time to see one of Africa’s greatest wonders. Our special offer to Victoria Falls is still live! From just N$2,500, you can fly from Windhoek to Victoria Falls during the travel window of 15 October to 13 November 2025. Book before 30 September to take advantage of this incredible deal and witness the thunderous magic of Mosi-oa-Tunya for yourself.
So sit back, relax, and know that wherever you’re headed today, you’re part of something bigger — a story unfolding at 30,000 feet.
Welcome aboard FlyNamibia. We’re for Namibians. And we’re for you.
Nerine Uys
See page 32.
Photography: Suné van Wyk
By Namibians. For Namibia.
For Jandré Germishuizen, photography didn’t begin with a camera. It began under the vast skies of Sossusvlei, where sweeping dunes and crisp desert air ignited a lifelong love for capturing the natural world. Though he was already drawn to photography in school, it was moving to his family’s farm near Sossusvlei that turned interest into calling. Each sunrise over a dune spine, each golden shadow cast across the Namib became more than just a scene… it became a story he had to tell.
Guiding guests through this world came naturally. From leading safaris to photographing the desert’s finest moments, he found his path at the intersection of hospitality and artistry. Today, Jandré works exclusively as a photographic tour guide, sharing Namibia’s magic with clients from all over the world. “We don’t really do much,” he laughs. “Namibia does the work. We just get you to the right place at the right time.”
It’s a humble sentiment, but the truth is that his eye has helped shape how Namibia is seen in galleries and publications around the globe. Jandré believes Namibia is unmatched as a photographic destination. “Where else do you get wildlife, dramatic landscapes, night skies, and unique cultures all in one place?” he asks. What makes his work stand out isn’t just technical excellence, but a deep emotional
understanding of Namibia’s light, textures, and soul. His early photos may have been out of focus, as he recalls, but they held promise. Today, that promise has grown into a body of work that reflects both curiosity and reverence.
As a tour guide, he understands that a good image can do more than impress; it can make someone ask, “Where is that? What is that?” And that spark of curiosity, he believes, is one of Namibia’s greatest assets. “You can’t believe it until you see it yourself,” he says. That’s what keeps his lens coming back.
You can’t believe it… until you see it yourself .
For Jandré, being Namibian means more than geography. It’s a shared pride. “I don’t think there’s any place where people are more proud of where they come from,” he reflects. In the tourism and photography community, that pride manifests in support, collaboration, and a shared commitment to showcasing and protecting Namibia’s beauty.
His advice to aspiring creatives is simple: be curious, be committed, and let the country speak through your lens.
your
Discover unparalleled conference facilities amidst breathtaking natural landscapes with Namibia Wildlife Resorts. At Khorixas Camp, immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient civilizations while enjoying modern conference conveniences.
Tourism in this vast flat region, typified by oshanas, makalani palms and herds of cattle, used to be virtually non-existent. However, these days it is steadily increasing. The area has a rich and interesting cultural and historical tradition, which can be explored by visiting some of the sites in the surroundings.
The town of Oniipa hosts the Onandjokwe Medical Museum in the grounds of the Onandjokwe Hospital. Built by the Finnish Mission Society in 1911, Onandjokwe was the first hospital in Owambo.
The Eenhana Heroes’ Memorial Shrine depicts the history of the liberation struggle and acknowledges the courage of the combatants of the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN) and the civilians who supported them.
The main attraction at the Ombalantu Baobab Heritage Centre is a huge Baobab tree estimated to be around 700750 years old. During tribal wars the tree served as a hiding place and was later also used as a post office and a chapel. The centre, located in Outapi, also offers camping sites laid out under the tree, as well as a small kiosk, a craft centre and facilities for day visitors.
Find more Namibia travel inspiration at www.thisisnamibia.com
Follow @thisis_namibia on Facebook and instagram for extraordinary Namibia travel stories
OTJIKOTO AND GUINAS LAKES
Lake Otjikoto, located 24 km northwest of Tsumeb in the Oshikoto Region, was used as a unique underwater dumping site in 1915 when retreating German forces disposed of their military equipment during the South West Africa Campaign. South African divers of the Ministry of Works recovered armaments in January 1916 while several more pieces of armaments were brought to the surface during subsequent diving expeditions. What’s left in the lake can be inspected by qualified divers. The majority of the armaments are on display in the Tsumeb Museum.
The 130 metre-deep Lake Guinas, which lies northwest of Otjikoto, is noted for its beautiful setting and the dark inky-blue colour of its water. However, since it is on a farm, permission to view it needs to be obtained from the farmer.
Visitors to Namibia who are qualified divers are welcome to join club members on a journey of underwater exploration to view these two geological curiosities.
A rare, mouth-breeding species of tilapia or dwarf bream is found in both of these sinkhole lakes.
A look at the 2024 National Report on Wildlife Protection, celebrating Namibia’s successes and understanding the needs for the future of conservation
t is early morning in Spitzkoppe. The granite peaks rise like ancient sentinels from the plains, catching the first golden light of the Namibian sun. The silence is vast, broken only by the crunch of gravel underfoot and the distant call of a hornbill. While most visitors come here for the solitude, stargazing and sculpted desert landscapes, few realise they are stepping into one of the most determined conservation efforts on the African continent.
Just a decade ago, Namibia was facing a wildlife crisis. Rhinos were being slaughtered at an alarming rate. Ninetynine carcasses were found in 2015 alone. Elephant poaching spiked shortly after, and pangolins, elusive and enigmatic, were vanishing into illegal trafficking routes. Even Namibia’s succulents, slow-growing plants sculpted by time and climate, were being stolen to supply black market collectors abroad.
Faced with this onslaught, Namibia did not look away. It responded with a seriousness and structure that now serves as a model for other nations. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, alongside the Namibian Police and the Office of the Prosecutor-General, created a multi-agency response that went far beyond enforcement. Wildlife intelligence units were established. Data collection was transformed. Helicopters, K9 units and SMART monitoring technology became part of daily patrols. In August 2024, the country inaugurated a regional Environmental Crimes Court in Otjiwarongo to fast-track prosecutions and build expertise in wildlife crime cases.
What makes Namibia’s approach remarkable is not only the action. It lies in the transparency. The 2024 National Report on Wildlife Protection does not just celebrate success. It critically examines where improvements are still needed. It looks at ten years of data and presents it with a transparency
and analytical depth that many other nations have yet to achieve. This includes asking the hard questions: Where are the bottlenecks? Why do some court cases take years to reach trial? What must change?
The report also recognises the importance of integration. It highlights collaboration between government, NGOs, communities, private landowners and international development partners. Where others talk about working together, Namibia is doing it. The Blue Rhino Task Team and other on-the-ground actors are evidence of what is possible when planning, implementation and accountability truly align.
It is, quite simply, a case study in how things should be done. The results speak for themselves. Though problems persist, rhino poaching is no longer on an upward spiral. Elephant losses have dropped into single digits. Pangolin trafficking, while still a challenge, is being met with increased seizures and prosecutions. Live plant thefts are also gaining attention, reminding us that conservation extends far beyond a few iconic mammals.
For visitors, this progress is not hidden behind closed doors. It is woven into the travel experience. In community conservancies, you can join rangers on a rhino-tracking walk, learn from locals about traditional plant use, or stay at lodges that fund anti-poaching work directly. Etosha National Park remains a highlight, but so too are the lesser-known reserves, from Naukluft’s rugged escarpments to the ephemeral rivers of the northwest where desert elephants roam.
A sundowner at Spitzkoppe takes on new meaning when you understand what lies behind the tranquillity. Those boulders
have stood still for millions of years. The country around them is in motion, driven by a deep, collective commitment to protect what is irreplaceable.
When planning your next journey, choose Namibia not only for its spectacular beauty but for its bold conservation spirit. Support the people and programmes that make protection possible. Travel with intention, knowing that your presence here, if done right, can help shape a brighter future for the wild heart of Africa.
Fast facts from the 2024 report:
• Rhino poaching peaked in 2015 but has since stabilised through strategic interventions.
• In 2023, elephant poaching dropped to under 10 cases nationally.
• Over 100 pangolins were seized in illegal trade crackdowns between 2017 and 2023.
• Otjiwarongo’s Environmental Crimes Court opened in 2024 and is the first of its kind in the region, improving legal outcomes in wildlife crime cases.
• Namibia has 86 registered communal conservancies, covering more than 20% of the country’s land area.
Each person has a way of soothing their pain; something which keeps them cool, calm and collected. Many believe in the power of music as it spreads powerful messages. This is also the observation of Erastus “Mr Yola” Halweendo of Lion Roar Production (LRP), a music production house in Ondangwa.
Thirty-seven-year-old Halweendo runs LRP from his home in Onguta location, in the heart of Ondangwa. I recently caught up with this versatile musician and producer to experience firsthand what he is doing behind the scenes.
Halweendo started doing music way back in 2010, shortly after completing school. “Although I was involved to some extent in music at school as a dancer, I never thought I would pursue it after school. Back at high school, we had a dancing group called the “Slaves” and we would sing and dance mostly over popular reggae songs during weekends at our school. Our popular artists were Lucky Dube, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and many other Caribbean greats. And fellow students would pay N$1 as an entrance fee,” the Ohangwena-born artist says.
After high school, Halweendo settled in Ondangwa, where he befriended an Angolan national. “This guy was mad about music, and he had a backyard studio. He was producing kizomba music for his compatriots who came from Angola. Throughout our friendship, he taught me how to produce music, and it was there where I honed my music skills,” he remembers.
As of yet, Halweendo produces reggae, kwaito, kizomba, hip-hop, gospel, shambo and Afro pop. “I do write, master and record my own songs. I also produce and manage some upcoming artists from Ondangwa and surrounding areas,” the father of three adds.
Artists under his label are popular northern kwaito artists Kaboy Kamakili, Rude Boy, Small Boy, Skorpion and DJ Nangy, the only female artist under the LRP label.
Halweendo underscores the importance of music in society. “Most people have a preposterous assumption that music is only done for commercial purposes. Unfortunately, that is a false narrative. Music has a deep connection with many people. When a person is down, they can always listen to their favourite song or music. It can uplift their spirits. When things go pear-shaped in life, music can soothe the pain and arrest the situation. Even some of the most uncivilised communities on earth make music of some sort,” he says.
He encourages fellow artists to do music for the love of it and not for the money, and to spread powerful messages across communities and nations.
“I am self-employed and invested in this studio to produce music and help fellow artists, especially the upcoming ones who cannot be accommodated elsewhere or who do not have money to record elsewhere. I always tell them they should put all their energy into their work and work hard. Many come here wanting quick success and demanding an album overnight. To
those I say: ‘If you want an album, prove yourself. We cannot produce trash. We should produce quality music. If you’re unable to do that, you don’t belong here!’ And that is the reason none of us, including me, has an album yet. However, most of our singles are enjoying airtime on many local radio stations.”
The LRP crew performs at local music events and gets booked for shows. “This is because of the way I handle them. I have coached them on how to handle interviews and to behave in public in order to keep their reputation, image and names intact. Sometimes fame can destroy a talent. My artists know this. They know the consequences and the price you pay for indiscipline.”
And, what could this price be? Halweendo scratches his beard while responding: “A two-month ban on all music activities connected to the label, including shows. You know, we have contracts with several town councils and businesses where we entertain their guests now and then. So, for example, when one of our artists drinks in public and misbehaves or starts a fight and it appears on social media, it dents our brand. So we don’t allow that,” he explains.
Musician Kaboy Kamakili stresses that since joining LRP he has grown tremendously. “I was managed by two managers and producers before coming here. However, I was abused a lot because I was naïve and itched for fame. I never really cared about earning an income as long as I was on stage. Soon, life became tough, and I was on the streets. Uncle Yola saw my potential and took me under his wing. We work on separate contracts, and our craft is how we make a living," he explains.
Halweendo says he does not want to own the artists forever, but rather wants to groom and sharpen them. “Every successful creative has a history where they come from. If they grow and want to move on to greener pastures, why not? I want to be recognised one day as someone who nurtured talent.” Surely, this recognition will come one day, considering the commitment, dedication and hard work he is putting into his musical work.
Max Itamalo
Continuing the curatorial exploration of Trudi Dicks’ profound exhibition showcased at The Project Room, one of Namibia’s leading platforms for art and artists, will relocate to a new space in Windhoek at the end of August 2025, marking an exciting new chapter for the gallery. Known for its close collaboration with both emerging and established artists, the gallery supports Namibian artists through different stages of their careers – from concept development and curation to marketing and connecting them with buyers, collectors and institutions.
The move to 5 Crohn Street not only places The Project Room in the heart of the capital city’s cultural district but also reinforces its role as a connector between artists, audiences and the wider creative landscape. The new location means that The Project Room is now near Namibia’s most prominent cultural institutions, including the National Art Gallery of Namibia, the National Theatre of Namibia, the FrancoNamibian Cultural Centre and the Namibian Arts Association. This will create new opportunities for collaboration, crossdisciplinary projects and shared audiences.
“We searched for months, and now we’ve found a space that feels just right. Our new home at 5 Crohn Street will allow
us to build an even stronger cultural footprint locally, while continuing to drive our mission: to share Namibian art and stories internationally,” says Laschandre Coetzee, partner of The Project Room.
From its new home, The Project Room will continue to present monthly exhibitions to art lovers, collectors and the culturally curious. Visitors can look forward to a showcase of diverse artistic voices and truly local stories. Additionally, the gallery hopes to continue to support community and cultural programmes and participate in major art fairs such as RMB Latitudes and the Investec Cape Town Art Fair. While the address has changed, the mission remains the same: to celebrate, collaborate and invest in Namibian art.
Laschandre Coetzee
TPR’s impact so far:
• 120+ artist collaborations
• 70+ exhibitions
• 15+ corporate and commercial projects
• 5 South African art fairs
Over the past eight years, The Project Room has built a strong reputation through its collaborations with artists and clients such as the National Art Gallery of Namibia, the National Arts Council of Namibia, FirstRand Namibia, RMB Namibia, Bank Windhoek and Capricorn Holdings. These partnerships have not only created valuable opportunities for local artists but have also highlighted the importance of Namibian art in communities, businesses and everyday life.
The Project Room - Namibia www.theprojectroom.com.na
There’s a reel that found me recently, one of those quiet scroll-stopping moments where the algorithm, for once, got it exactly right. It spoke of something many of us experience but rarely name: the creative gap. The idea is simple, yet gut-punchingly profound. As creatives, we are often deeply dissatisfied with our own work, not because we lack imagination, but because our taste has outpaced our skill. We can see the magic in our mind’s eye. We just can’t quite get there… yet.
I’ve felt this tug more times than I can count. That burning vision of a concept, a line of text, a video sequence, a visual identity… and then the inevitable frustration when the output falls flat. It’s not quite what I meant. Not quite what I saw. Not quite what I felt. This is the creative gap. The chasm between what you dream and what you make.
And here’s the twist: this gap exists because you care. You care enough to see things differently. You have good taste. You recognise beauty. You know what great work could look like. And that is the very reason your own work often feels like a disappointment. Because it doesn’t (yet) meet the standard of your own vision.
The reel quoted Ira Glass, whose words every struggling creative should hear:
All of us who do creative work… we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, and it’s just not that good… But your taste… is why your work disappoints you.
That hit me. Hard. Because we’re not talking about lack of talent. We’re talking about the time it takes to close the gap. And the only way to do that is to keep going. Make more. Refine. Try again. Be gentle with yourself.
In a world obsessed with instant success and overnight virality, this kind of patience is radical. But it’s also essential. Because closing the creative gap isn’t about chasing perfection, it’s about committing to the process. It’s about staying loyal to your vision even when your current tools can’t quite honour it.
The creative gap is not your failure. It is your fuel. It means you’re still growing. Still reaching. Still evolving. The worst thing that could happen is that you stop feeling that gap altogether. That’s the moment you’ve stopped seeing.
So to every designer, writer, musician, entrepreneur, or idea-chaser out there who’s wrestling with the dissonance between what you imagined and what you made. You’re not falling short. You’re just in the gap. And the gap is where your next great work begins.
Elzanne McCulloch
On 20 July, Johanna Swartbooi was crowned Miss Namibia 2025. To those who had not followed her journey, this might have seemed like an overnight success story. However, this model, entrepreneur and pageant queen has been working long and hard to get to where she is today.
First time around Johanna’s first shot at Miss Namibia was way back in 2019. Although she did not win the main title, she performed very well, earning the second runner-up, top achiever and top model titles. Following that success, Johanna continued to
work as a model, taking part in Windhoek’s premier fashion week while also pursuing her entrepreneurial goals.
In a previous interview with FlyNamibia, Johanna gave us a glimpse into her life as a Namibian fashion model living the dream in Cape Town. During her time there, she worked with prominent fashion designer Gavin Rajah and with major commercial brands such as Pick n Pay, Superbalist, SpecSavers and McDonald’s.
Staying grounded
Throughout her journey, Johanna remained grounded by her faith, family and friends. She especially credits her mentor
for supporting her through it all, noting that this support fuelled her passion to keep pushing for her dreams. “I don’t do anything alone. I’m so fortunate to have had so many people behind me who were working with me towards this goal (Miss Namibia), which has been a blessing,” she says. For Johanna, these relationships trump anything else. “Relationships are the biggest currency you can have, even more than money.”
Crowning glory
“I pray a lot,” Johanna says. “Before I went on stage for the final announcement, I just said to God, ‘We’ve worked so hard together, so please give me what I deserve and please don’t disappoint me!’ My mind was calm, and as soon as my name was called, I was just like, ‘Thank God!’”
While this was not her first rodeo, Johanna shares how hard the pageant was. “It was so much harder this time because of the standard that I set for myself,” she says.
Six years later, Johanna wears the Miss Namibia crown with pride, a crown she vowed to claim if she was ever to take part in the pageant again. “After performing so well during my first attempt in 2019 and coming back this year, the only other title I expected to get was the main one. There was no room for failure,” she says. This self-imposed expectation put a lot of pressure on her, she says, but she was able to soldier on with the support of her mentor, who has been by her side since 2019.
“I worked so hard and prayed so much, and I was grateful to achieve my dream,” the self-proclaimed “stubborn dreamer” shares.
The road ahead
The biggest dream currently keeping Johanna awake is her impending Miss Universe participation. Something she has dreamt of as soon as she stepped into the pageant world, Miss Universe is the one that Johanna wants to conquer with as much confidence as she did Miss Namibia. “No shade to the other pageants, but Miss Universe is the one pageant I always set my eyes on.” Her dream to participate in the international showpiece was so great that she marked it on her calendar before the Miss Namibia pageant even began. “I always wanted to represent Namibia internationally, but no other pageants cut it for me. It had to be Miss Universe or nothing,” she says.
Apart from conquering the Miss Universe pageant, Johanna is looking to pour back into her creative endeavours. “The creative industry is my passion. Through the ||Hapo (Dream) initiative, I want to encourage more Namibians to chase their dreams,” says Johanna. Through the initiative, she nurtures Namibian youth through skills development workshops focused on capacitating creative entrepreneurs to professionalise their initiatives. “There are so many opportunities for Namibian creatives. But, unfortunately, we are not formalised, so my mission is to register and formalise more businesses within the sector and contribute to the research that exists within the sector,” she says. As part of this initiative, Johanna has also hosted a fashion round table to facilitate dialogue aimed at improving the fashion sector.
Rukee Kaakunga
Forgot your flowers? Left the cake behind? Need your dress in the north today? FlyNamibia Cargo has you covered! From Windhoek to the north (and beyond), we’ll deliver your wedding essentials quickly and safely — so you can say “I do” without the stress.
E-packages:
5kg = N$200 10kg = N$250
Oversized wedding cargo:
(that won’t fit in a box) N$25 per kg
Sale period: 18 August – 30 October 2025
To book: cargo@flynamibia.com.na or visit any FlyNamibia office
Scientific name: Pechuel-loeschea Leubnitziae
Common name: Bitterbush
Some names are self-explanatory and the bitterbush is a good example. It is indeed a bitter bush – not that I would recommend it to be eaten by humans to prove this, as the smell alone suggests a bitter taste. This multiple-stemmed bush is known to be a perennial herb with a strong smell found in most areas of the country, except for the majority of the eastern part. With a height of no more than two metres, the bitterbush is not really that big, but it has immense importance to livelihoods. Its leaves have a dusty olive colour with small hairs on it. Its stem is pale brown, quite short and has dense branches growing sideways and upward. The bush produces small purple flowers between October to April, which is also the rainy season.
Amidst the strong smell – unpleasant for many but not so much for me – the bitterbush has uses one would never have imagined. The smell itself serves as an effective repellent to insects such as mosquitoes. The leaves are crushed and set alight in a fire-resistant container – traditionally a claypot. The burnt leaves then emit an even stronger smell to repel insects. The scent is also a natural remedy for colds. Those unassuming branches that look so small are in fact very strong. I have always wondered what the branched fishing traps were made of (yes, the ones we see women manoeuvring in the open plains during the rainy season). Actually, it is often made from the bitterbush, while some use reeds.
It took me a while to fathom how these fishing traps are made from the branches of the bitterbush. As an environmental enthusiast observing indigenous flora, my concern is how many bushes had to be cut to get these branches. Did the entire bush succumb or could it potentially regenerate? These are questions I still wish to have answered by witnessing the whole process one day. What I have noticed, however, is that
these traps have become a rare sight within my village, which does make sense, as the bitterbush is not as abundant today as it used to be.
The bitterness of this bush usually prevents livestock from browsing on it, but the drought has forced them to survive on it when grazing areas are limited. Unfortunately, slaughtering livestock that just recently fed on the bitterbush quite literally gives the meat a bitter taste and smell, making it a total waste of meat. Interestingly, the name of the town Omaruru means “bitter milk”. It is said that cattle often produced bitter milk after grazing the bitterbushes, which were readily available at the time.
While randomly asking elderly friends and family about the uses of this bush, I learnt that the tiny branches inserted between the rows of barns for mahangu storage are branches of the bitterbush. The barns are usually made from mediumsized mopane branches, and bitterbush branches are inserted to fill the gaps in between. In addition to the strength of these branches, they happen to be resistant to insect infestation. This is a great strategy to avoid or at least reduce the number of insects. The smell of the branches slowly fades as it dries, while the branches remain strong and are not easily broken.
The seeds of the bitterbush are quite small but visible with the naked eye. This is an important bush to rural livelihoods, therefore like any other plant that can be propagated, it should be propagated. It should be done at the right places and in the right quantities. Our communities can thrive when we have the right plants in the right places. Let’s restore our natural habitats to serve this purpose.
Agnes Shekupe Shivute
Actofel Ilovu is a key figure in the Namibian art community, contributing as both a curator and a visual artist. Born in Ondangwa and currently residing in Windhoek, Ilovu graduated from the College of the Arts (2010) before earning his higher diploma in Visual Art and Advertising from the University of Namibia (2016). He is known for his traditional yet innovative approach to artmaking, particularly in printmaking and smoke drawings on paper. While he creates visual narratives that respond to his observation of contemporary Namibian society, there is an intimate relationship between the artist and his choice of materials, largely informed by his personal history.
As a child, Ilovu suffered severe burns to his body, an experience that impacted his sense of identity. He reflects, “Because of the fire that burnt me, I was rejected by many, including myself, while growing up. It wasn’t easy to look different from other kids. As an adult, I have fallen in love with my scars, and I see myself as an art piece created by that fire.” For some years, nuts from the marula tree have featured prominently in Ilovu’s work. Indigenous to Southern Africa, the tree’s fruit is harvested, and the inner kernel of the nut is extracted to make marula oil, which possesses numerous beneficial qualities. In the aftermath of the fire, marula oil was applied to Ilovu’s skin to aid the healing process. After the kernels are extracted, the husk of the nut is left with two or three holes, which are called “Omesho” (eyes) in Oshiwambo.
It is the shape of the husk and its holes that appear as small, pensive faces in Ilovu’s linoleum block prints. Referring to the characters in his prints as extensions of himself, the artist claims that the marula nut’s strong resemblance to eyes and a face gave him a cast of characters to work with. This cast came to life in the I See series, which debuted with his third solo exhibition titled Onlooker, presented by StArt Art Gallery and hosted by The Project Room (2023). As a commentary on his sociopolitical views and the events that were current at the time, each artwork featured a nut that stood for different people: politicians, women striving for change, vulnerable children, protesters beaten by police or flood victims from the north. “Like a mask, the nut allows me to tell stories that both are and are not my own to tell,” he says. Further aligning media and concept,
Ilovu works with smoke from the burning husk of the nut to create ethereal smoke drawings on paper. The burnt husks produce charcoal and a fine white ash, which the artist also uses in his work to create charcoal drawings and pigment on paper.
Ilovu’s talents and interests manifest in many different forms, giving him a front-on and backend view of the art world. For the past few years, he has worked at the Namibian Arts Association, conducting workshops and curating exhibitions. He views his curatorial practice as an extension of his artistic practice, informing the conceptualisation, implementation and presentation of his own artworks. Upon reflection on the Namibian creative industry, his observation is that certain structures position art as a niche, when it should be accessible to all Namibians and accommodate emerging artists at the grassroots level. He also emphasises the importance of art education for those who want to pursue art as a profession, raising the need for recognition of the sector as a relevant industry in Namibia. When asked to offer advice, he says, ”I think artists should value their worth and stand up for their rights. I am also asking the Namibian artist to use any chance they get to showcase and be serious about their works.”
Ilovu recently exhibited work in Slow Burn, a group show presented by SMAC Gallery in Stellenbosch (2025). His group exhibitions also include the Bogenfels Artists’ Retreat (2021), as well as African Galleries Now (2020). In addition, the talented artist’s works are featured in the Bank Windhoek and Namdeb collections, among others. Through his exploration of themes of identity, personal history and transformation, Actofel Ilovu’s work continues to serve as a personal archive. The carefully controlled, graphic qualities of printmaking contrasted with the unpredictable results of working with fire and smoke, which resonate with life’s ebb and flow, both play crucial roles in shaping one’s human experience.
Actofel Ilovu’s work is currently featured in a group show at the Sweet Side of Thingz in Windhoek, located in Independence Avenue.
StArt Art Gallery info@startartgallery.com
Scan to view Actofel Ilovu’s work on our website
Selling period 05 August 2025 to 30 September 2025
Travel period 15 October 2025 to 30 November 2025
Limited availability per flight and starting from NAD 2500 per one-way ticket. T’s & C’sapply
Tourism is more than an industry in Namibia; it is a lifeline. It creates jobs, supports small businesses, funds conservation and showcases our rich cultures to the world. At the heart of it all is one promise we must keep: every visitor must feel valued, nurtured and secure.
As the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) transforms to meet global standards, we are embracing a value that drives everything we do: customer centricity. This means putting the needs, concerns and experiences of our travellers first. From the moment they arrive to the moment they leave, their comfort, enjoyment and peace of mind are our priority.
Equally important is the role we Namibians play. We believe in empowering our people to create authentic and meaningful experiences not only for visitors but also for our own communities. This shared ownership enriches tourism and ensures that our culture, traditions and stories are preserved and celebrated by all.
Recent challenges, including an increase in incidents affecting travellers, remind us why this commitment matters. When visitors feel safe and cared for, they relax, explore and connect deeply with our people and places. They share their positive experiences with friends and family, inspiring others to visit. They return not just once but repeatedly, creating lasting bonds that strengthen our economy and our global reputation. Being customer-centric is not only about service; it is about
responsibility. It means working hand in hand with local communities, law enforcement and tourism operators to create a travel environment that is welcoming and worry-free. It is about anticipating needs before they arise, listening to feedback and going the extra mile to exceed expectations.
In every smile, every gesture of hospitality, every act of care, we tell the world: Namibia is not only beautiful, but it is a place where you matter.
Let’s work together to make every journey unforgettable. Because when our visitors thrive, Namibia thrives.
Photography: Suné van Wyk
There is something quietly powerful about Namafu Amutse. The way she speaks about resilience, roots, and the rhythms of her everyday life leaves a lasting impression. It is not flashy. It is not rehearsed. It is real. And in a world hungry for authenticity, that is exactly what set her apart.
Selected from over 100 entries and voted Namibia’s newest storytelling ambassador, Namafu is the 2025 Face of FlyNamibia. This campaign was never about finding a model or influencer. It sought a Namibian storyteller with heart, perspective, and a camera in hand.
Namafu is a teacher in Windhoek, but her story begins in the coastal town of Walvis Bay and unfolds through the winding streets of Swakopmund, where she spent her formative years. “It was a place that felt both small and limitless,” she reflects. “My curiosity and creativity were nurtured by a tight-knit community that shaped the person I am today.”
She does not just take pictures or string words together. She amplifies voices. And it is that instinct that brought her winning reel, Unexpected Namibia, to life.
Her mother, a teacher herself, inspired Namafu’s path into education. But it is clear that her classroom extends far beyond four walls. She pours herself into her learners just as she pours herself into her passions — storytelling, photography, creative writing, and most recently, crochet. “I just love creating with my hands,” she says, a quiet smile in her voice.
At her core, Namafu is a documentarian of the soul. She does not just take pictures or string words together. She amplifies voices. And it is that instinct that brought her winning reel, Unexpected Namibia, to life.
For the campaign’s final challenge, finalists were asked to create a short video revealing a side of Namibia that defies stereotypes. Namafu’s lens turned toward small-scale mining communities — hardworking people often unseen and unheard, working in difficult conditions yet filled with hope. “I wanted to highlight their humanity and resilience,” she explains. “To zoom in on the everyday heroes who carry the weight of their communities.”
Her reel, self-filmed and self-edited, is raw and moving. But it is not just the visuals — it is the perspective. “This challenge reminded me that before you tell a story, you must first listen,” she says. “Powerful narratives centre people, not just images.”
For Namafu, being Namibian means resilience. It means carrying your roots wherever you go. It means seeing value
not only in landscapes, but in the people who walk them — the ones who keep showing up for their communities, day after day, without applause.
When asked what she hopes people feel when they experience her content, her answer is simple and profound. “I hope they feel seen. I hope they feel inspired. And I hope they feel the heartbeat of Namibia.”
As the new Face of FlyNamibia, Namafu does not just want to take people on journeys. She wants to take them on experiences. Not surface-level snapshots, but deeper stories that reveal who we truly are. “It is about showing the layers, the complexity, the beauty that lies just beneath the obvious.”
To young Namibians watching her rise, she leaves this message. “Just do it. Don’t wait. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Your dreams are worth fighting tooth and nail for.”
Namafu’s win is more than a title. It is a launchpad for stories, for connection, and for daring to dream. And now, with the wind beneath her wings, she is ready to help Namibia’s stories take flight.
Elzanne McCulloch
The new Fly-in Zambezi Lodge-Hopping Charter, in partnership with Gondwana Collection Namibia, will operate from July to November 2025 on a charter-only basis, providing seamless connections between lodges in Namibia’s Zambezi Region, Victoria Falls, and Maun. The aircraft will be stationed in Katima Mulilo, allowing for flexible, on-demand flights tailored to travel agents, tour operators, and private guests.
For more information or bookings, please contact reservations@westair.com.na
There is hardly a newspaper or journal on this planet for the target group “women” without an article about the female cycle, where problems are discussed at length and solutions offered. A high proportion of women get frightened by any irregularity in their cycle and this will often make them opt for the most invasive management offered by the medical industry. Hence, it is our responsibility as professionals to explain the facts and reassure patients that there is nothing to worry about. Often the simplest approach, known as “expectant management” or “watchful waiting”, will solve the problem and allay patients’ fears.
People generally think that the length of a cycle is 28 days from the first day of bleeding until the next first day of bleeding. However, statistics in medical literature show that as little as 3% of women – others mention numbers ranging between 10 and 15% – have a 28-day cycle. The majority will be anything between 25 and 35 days – already one less reason to worry. Furthermore, until the age of 20 years, no regular cycle should be expected – another box to be ticked off on the list of worries, especially for mothers having to deal with the problems of their adolescent daughters. Concerning women from the age of 45 years and up, experiencing irregularities in the bleeding pattern and length of the cycle is normal due to the natural onset of perimenopause, causing a diminishing number of follicles in their ovaries.
The amount and length of the menstrual flow will differ due to several reasons. The size of the uterus, and whether having been pregnant or not, is of utmost importance. Other inner surface-increasing factors such as mucosal polyps or fibroids also play a major role in changing the amount or length of your period. A normal length would be up to seven days. The amount is considered normal if you do not have more than three tampons (bleed-throughs) on a day. Obviously, with
any abnormal length or amount of cyclical bleeding you might have to obtain a specialist’s opinion. If you had your regular routine smear test done, a severe cervical disease can be excluded. Therapeutic treatment steps are offered through modern medicine. A conservative approach will, under normal circumstances, be entirely sufficient. There are many natural remedies available.
If your problems cannot be solved through over-the-counter medication, your specialist might consider prescribing bleeding-reductive medication, hormones or local treatment via progesterone-releasing long-acting contraceptive devices. Even the contraceptive pill might sometimes be the solution.
Small operations like hysteroscopy (camera introduced through the cervical canal), or the removal of polyps or fibroids are possible. Depending on the patient's age and family planning, removal of the lining of the uterus might also be an option.
Do ask your medical professional for an individualised treatment plan if you can relate to any of the concerns above.
Dr
Bettina Allgaier Zalto Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
BELLHAUS Atelier & Galerie recently opened its doors to a compelling exhibition showcasing the work of three visionary artists: Heidi Louw, Kudzanai Katerere and Marcii Magson. Their creations – ranging from fluid brushstrokes and intricate weavings to sculptural forms – are intertwined in a seamless visual dialogue. At the heart of the exhibition is KOLO, a name inspired by a traditional Slavic dance that evokes unity, joy and collective movement. This evocative title sets the tone for an artistic journey that transcends borders and connects across generations and genres.
“It all began with wool, an ancient craft and salt-of-theearth people in a remote place called Stampriet, the unlikely source of my inspiration. Some may call it love at first fibre,” says Magson. “The first time I visited The Mill,” she recalls, “I was so inspired I stayed up all night, unable to contain the flow of creativity.” The Mill, located in Stampriet, is an establishment dedicated to revitalising Namibia’s Swakara wool industry while creating employment opportunities for local men and women. Their commitment to quality is evident in their refusal to compromise on methods, costs or labour, upholding rigorous standards to produce exceptional, heirloom-quality carpets.
Surrounded by raw, spun wool and an array of woven textile samples, Magson discovered new patterns with an effortless flow. The rhythmic song of the loom, the swift skilled hands, the rise and fall of an ancient craft and the earthy tones of thread were deeply soul-stirring, yet strangely familiar. Known for her bold, visceral patterns, this experience gave Magson a new and unexpected voice. The Mill’s creations included inventive three-tier wool chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, but it was the downy, expansive carpets which drew my attention. “In the intricate tapestries of life, I see textiles, particularly carpets, which, as silent storytellers, we get to hold and nurture throughout seasons in life.” Which is why Magson envisions her Swakara carpets as living repositories of graphical narratives, meticulously crafted to tell a story through pattern and texture.
Like the kolo dance – a concept that resonates deeply within Magson’s circular-design library – the recurring circular motifs found throughout the textile designs convey connection and harmony. Through these forms, themes of unity are explored, alongside the comforting and often confounding cyclical nature of life itself. More than just decorative items for a living room, these works are visual, layered poems where tradition and modernity are thoughtfully intertwined.
Katerere hails from Zimbabwe, known as the “House of Stone” and home to a sculpting tradition dating back to the sixth century. Sculpting for royalty was usually passed down through the paternal line, from father to son. But Katerere, raised by his elderly grandparents and struggling to make ends meet, taught himself. With handmade tools and raw materials accessed directly from the ground, he broke away from cultural expectations and set out to create a legacy of his own. “I first came to Namibia in 2015 and immediately fell in love,” he says. The feeling was mutual. This exhibition marks ten years since Katerere first shared his sculptures with Namibia. He now presents his Special Collection, described as “a timeless sanctuary that houses a carefully curated selection of sculptures reflecting pivotal moments from my past exhibitions”. The sculptures, shaped by faith and persistence, express tenderness, affection and his unwavering belief in God.
Heidi Louw’s acrylic paintings, with their dramatic interplay of shadow and light, are reminiscent of the Dutch master Rembrandt – just imagine the European Renaissance infused with a surrealist, contemporary twist. Her work captures daily moods and domestic rituals, exploring the contrast between ordinary delight and inevitable decay. These are scenes that one can readily identify and recall, yet they pull you into an intangible mystery. “I am deeply drawn to the quiet yet profound drama found within interiors, personal objects and figures paused in moments of contemplation
or transformation. Through my paintings, I strive to breathe life into these suspended moments,” says Louw. Her work is an invitation to linger and to notice the beauty held within hidden, still fragments of life.
Much like the kolo dance, these three artists – each uniquely gifted and established in their respective disciplines – came together in an effortless choreography that never clashes but instead complements and enhances one another’s work.
Madeleen Duvenhage
Connecting dreams to a decade of knowledge and experience
The leading aviation training organisation in Africa.
In recent months it has been announced that both 92-yearold President Paul Biya of Cameroon (currently the oldest serving head of state) and 83-year-old President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast have decided to run for another term in office.
Ageing politicians are of course not unique to Africa. George W. Bush served two terms in office (eight years), has been retired for 16 years, and when he celebrated his 79th birthday on 6 June this year, he was still younger than current US president, Donald Trump, who at 78 years and seven months was the oldest US president to be inaugurated. And yet, Trump is not the oldest Western leader at present, with Irish president, Michael D. Higgins, and Italian president, Sergio Mattarella, both being 84, while Harald V, the King of Norway, is 88 – though his role is more ceremonial than active.
This trend is not limited to heads of state either. Though he took a leave of absence between March 2021 and May 2024, Anthony Martin Grosvenor Christopher, otherwise known as Lord Christopher, is the oldest sitting member of the United Kingdom’s House of Lords at 100 years old, followed closely by Joan Anna Dalziel Seccombe, otherwise known as Baroness Seccombe, who is 95.
who are not allowed to, having to stick to strict retirement age provisions). However, unless they were seriously bad with their money, surely presidents and senior politicians can afford a very comfortable retirement. After all, if news of our former president’s government-funded retirement house in Swakopmund is anything to go by, even in Namibia they are looked after.
Enough often is not enough for some people, though. We have all heard the stories about millions squirreled away in bank accounts in Switzerland and other so-called “tax haven” countries, and just look at the uproar among certain politicians in the United States caused by the tabling of a bill that would ban lawmakers, presidents and vice-presidents from stock trading – the rationale being that they are privy to information that the person on the street is not and, due to their connections, could “unjustly enrich themselves”.
I am not writing this to “ageshame” anyone, and I accept that with great age can come great wisdom.
The 199th Congress in the United States of America currently has the highest number of older members in modern history, with Charles Grassley, who has served since 1981, the oldest at 91. He is joined by at least 19 other members of both houses who are over the age of 80, including 83-year-old former speaker, Mitch McConnell, who has suffered a series of public health scares, including falling on numerous occasions and freezing up while speaking.
I am not writing this to “age-shame” anyone, and I accept that with great age can (sometimes) come great wisdom. I just want to know why they do not simply retire and enjoy the rest of their life rather than continue working?
Sadly, money is probably a large part of it. I can understand how more and more people are finding that they do not have enough money to be able to retire and have to carry on working (of course, unlike most politicians, they are the ones
Or is it just a case of not knowing what else to do with themselves? Someone once told me in jest (at least I hope it was) that they keep working past retirement age because they do not want to die, and I have heard from more than one person that if they did not work, they would not have anything else to do. I love my job, and I enjoy getting to do it, but there are so many other things that I would love to do but just do not always have the time for, so that getting to retire one day is something I look forward to. I hope to be fit and healthy enough to cycle, hike, swim, travel and even just have the time to sit quietly with a steaming cup of coffee and a good book.
Until next time, enjoy your journey.
David Bishop
A Spitzkoppe Sojourn
I can still recall the first time I saw the Spitzkoppe. I was in my teens, travelling with my family on vacation to one of Namibia’s most iconic geological formations. I had slept through much of the six-hour drive, and when I finally woke up – still groggy and heavy with sleep – evening was just setting in. As we circled around looking for a spot to pitch our tent, I peered out of the car window. It felt like I had been unknowingly airlifted and landed on an entirely different planet. The inky night sky was pierced with a million glittering, luminous stars. Shadowy, sharp massifs towered above us; even the moon seemed oddly dwarfed by these mysterious peaks of protruding rock. The place felt both prehistoric and cosmic. That otherworldly sense has never quite faded, even though I have since returned to Spitzkoppe countless times as an adult.
Where giants roam
In the western reaches of the Erongo Region, a flat expanse of semi-desert savannah extends northwards, where the
otherwise unbroken horizon is crowned by the unmistakable craggy-shaped domes of the Spitzkoppe.
Spitzkoppe, a granite inselberg often nicknamed the “Matterhorn of Namibia” for its pointed, jagged profile, stretches 600 to 700 metres above the Namib plains. Forged by time from the eroded remnants of an ancient subterranean mass of solidified lava – much like the Brandberg and Erongo mountains – it is estimated to be more than 120 million years old. The tallest of its many outcrops stands at 1,728 metres above sea level.
Leaving Windhoek and its concrete cityscapes behind, we travel towards the north-central part of the country, known as Damaraland. The landscape, ringed by the Erongo mountains, is populated with crooked yet surprisingly tall termite hills rising from the earth. Scattered among them stands the familiar camelthorn tree, its branches buoyant and sunny with yellow blossoms from the recent rains. Located roughly 280 kilometres from Windhoek – merely a three-hour drive from the capital – Spitzkoppe is reached via the B2 highway, with the small town of Usakos along the way. I may be a little partial here, but for the intrepid, self-sufficient traveller, few experiences rival camping at Spitzkoppe. Among the available accommodation options, Spitzkoppe Community Campsite, though the most basic when compared to the nearby chalets and the luxurious Spitzkoppen Lodge, offers the unique allure of simplicity and solitude.
This camping alternative is not only far more affordable for the cash-strapped backpacker, but also offers no-frills, easily accessible logistics. Travelling mostly on tarred roads, a stretch of well-maintained gravel takes you directly to the campsite’s reception. Spitzkoppe Community Campsite offers 31 designated camping spots spread across the park. Some sites are completely secluded, while others are grouped in clusters of two or three. Camping here is delightfully unstructured:
it’s first come, first served, but there is rarely a frantic sprint of competitive campers scrambling for a spot. There always seems to be enough space to go around! For added privacy, some sites are more tucked away, with rugged rock overhangs providing welcome shade before the morning sun starts to turn.
The campsites are minimally equipped, with no running water or electricity. There are no flushing toilets at the individual sites; instead, pit latrines (also referred to as “long drops”) are conveniently located at various camping spots, along with waste bins and fireplaces. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to stock up on all essentials before heading out to Spitzkoppe, especially water for drinking, washing or cooking. Firewood is available for purchase at reception. Upon check-in, you’ll receive a simple navigational map of the campsite area. Guests can prebook meals at a small restaurant and bar located at reception, where you’ll also find hot showers and flushing toilets.
Still, I would daringly propose taking full advantage of camping wild and temporarily trade cushioned comfort for the sake of an unadulterated, immersive adventure. With its raw, rural setting, this camping option invites you to unplug, leave your devices behind and truly disconnect from the digital white noise in our lives.
From stargazing to daydreaming
On our first evening, with braaied meat and garlic bread sizzling on the grill and another liberal layer of mosquito repellent applied, we move our camping chairs closer to the fire and listen. At first, the quiet feels deafening, save for the soothing “ooh-oh” of an owl and our crackling campfire. Eventually, the stillness settles around us like an old friend.
Here, the geography resembles a giant’s playground – boulders rearranged and seemingly moved at whim. At night, Spitzkoppe is transformed, giving your imagination free rein. We gaze at the colossal outlines and guess what abstract art form they might resemble: a hull of a ship, a slumbering whale, or perhaps an outstretched hand? Ridges and contoured slopes have been carved out through the millennia, formed and folded like pastry dough, yet now strangely immovable and ancient. Spitzkoppe, in its secluded enchantment, presents a perfect environment for astrophotography. With the camera carefully angled on a chair, we capture dizzying galaxies darting across the clear night sky in an experimental timelapse. The Southern Sky unveils the Milky Way, Orion’s Belt and the Southern Cross –constellations Northerners seldom get to see.
First thing the next morning, we set out to explore. The earlier you start, the easier and more refreshing the hikes are likely
to be. Generally, it is best to visit Spitzkoppe during the dry season, from May to October, when the cooler weather makes hiking and walking more enjoyable. Even in the pleasantly crisp climate expected at the end of May in Namibia, temperatures can still rise sharply during the day. Be sure to wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and keep ample drinking water close at hand.
Guided hikes are available for those unsure of where to start and can be arranged at reception. Routes include the Matterhorn and Pontok trails, some of which require a technical edge. Be sure to keep an eye out for two iconic landmarks: the oft-photographed Rock Arch, a striking stone bridge that has become a favourite among photographers (especially during golden hour), and the Rock Pool, a rain-fed basin formed between the granite rocks.
One of the highlights at Spitzkoppe is Bushman Paradise, a fascinating site where you can view ancient rock engravings left behind by the Khoisan people centuries ago. These art tours offer a glimpse into the beliefs and daily life of one of Southern Africa’s oldest cultural groups. Due to past damage and the need to preserve this heritage, access to the site is only allowed with a guide, who also brings the history of the area to life through stories and local context that add depth.
However, for the traveller who values autonomy when traversing new terrains, self-guided and slow-paced explorations are best for making the most of your time at Spitzkoppe. The smaller rock formations at Spitzkoppe are moderately easy to climb, with smooth and gradual gradients. Comparatively, these steady ascents might not be much in terms of elevation, but the view is nonetheless still rewarding.
As we wind our way along undulating dirt trails, desert-toned lizards skittle under our feet, quick as a flash. Nimble dassies (rock hyraxes) scamper through narrow clefts in the rocks, while inquisitive squirrels peek at us from their burrowed hideouts. The air is alive with birdlife: we spot Weavers, Hornbills, Pale-Winged Starlings, and cheeky Warblers pecking away at campsite scraps with no shame. We cannot help but notice surprising streams of water trickling down from a rock face – happy evidence of a generous rainy season experienced throughout Namibia.
As sunset nears, the granite composition of the rocks turn the peaks into hues of glowing pink, which slowly deepen to a rich, reddening ochre. We watch as night arrives and the first star flickers into view. At Spitzkoppe, you don’t escape the world. You reconnect with it through stillness.
Madeleen Duvenhage
"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” – Hippocrates
Namibia offers sun-drenched soil, wild landscapes and a rich tapestry of traditional foods. Yet in a world of packaged snacks and imported supplements, we often forget the healing power of what is already grown in our soil and served in our kitchens.
As a functional wellness coach, I like to remind women: you do not need exotic powders or overpriced pills to feel better. You need to return to the wisdom of nutrient-rich local foods that support your body’s natural healing systems, namely gut, hormones, immunity and energy.
The leaves of the moringa, often called the miracle tree, are rich in iron, calcium, vitamin C and antioxidants. Traditionally used in northern Namibia, this plant supports immune function, lowers inflammation and helps regulate blood sugar, which is crucial for hormonal health. Add the powder to smoothies, sprinkle it on pap (maize porridge), or stir the fresh leaves into stews. It is a tonic for low energy levels and a gentle detoxifier.
Another local powerhouse is mahangu, Namibia’s ancient pearl millet. It is full of magnesium, fibre and plant protein. Unlike refined grains, mahangu digests slowly, keeping blood sugar stable and energy even. Its resistant starch nourishes gut health, while its anti-inflammatory effects and cortisolregulating properties make it ideal for stress resilience. Whether eaten as porridge, flatbread, or in a stew, mahangu offers deeply grounding nourishment.
Then there are free-range eggs, found at local markets or backyard coops. Eggs are nature’s multivitamin – high in choline, B vitamins, vitamin D and protein. They are essential for hormone production, especially for women over 35. They also support neurotransmitters for mood and clarity and assist liver detox – key for processing excess hormones. Try a soft-boiled egg in the morning or toss one into a warm salad for a boost.
While usually found in skincare, marula oil is also edible when cold-pressed. Traditionally used by the Ovambo people, it
is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. It reduces inflammation, supports skin and hormone health, and boosts absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K. Take a teaspoon directly or drizzle over vegetables – it is both a beauty and nutritional boost in one.
And then there is devil’s claw, a traditional remedy that grows wild in Namibia’s deserts. Used in teas or tinctures, it eases joint pain and inflammation and supports liver health. While best used under the guidance of a herbalist, its roots run deep in Namibian healing traditions, offering a natural option for those managing arthritis or chronic pain.
Namibians are raising families, building businesses and holding communities together, yet many feel tired, inflamed or disconnected from their bodies. What if, instead of always reaching outwards for solutions, we began to reach back?
Back to the markets.
Back to the land.
Back to the remedies and recipes our mothers once knew.
You do not need to overhaul everything. Start small: a handful of moringa, a bowl of mahangu, an egg from your neighbour’s coop. Food is more than just fuel; it is memory, culture, connection and healing. And the medicine of Namibia is already in your hands.
Cerina Bezuidenhout Haasbroek
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified health provider before making changes to your health routine.
Living Well is a monthly wellness column exploring functional health, natural rituals and conscious living in Namibia. Follow @cerinabzd on Instagram for tips, workshops and holistic health guidance.
By Namibians. For Namibia.
Under the purple blossoms of a big jacaranda tree in her childhood yard, a young Zellmari Brandt would perform to an audience of none. The stage was imagined, but the passion was real. That moment, repeated in countless afternoons of play, became the seed of a lifelong love for performance, storytelling, and human connection.
Today, Zellmari is the General Manager of Marketing at Future Media. She is also a creative director, theatre graduate, and a powerhouse behind some of Namibia’s most compelling campaigns and creative work. Whether directing a scene, developing brand strategy, or managing a team of storytellers, Zellmari lives at the intersection of structure and soul.
Her career path has spanned theatre, television, film, radio, events, and marketing, but the golden thread is her unwavering
belief in the power of people and narrative. "Working with people is what excites me most," she says. "Seeing a creative step outside their comfort zone and grow – that’s the real magic."
Zellmari is known not just for her vision, but for her drive. She demands the best from those around her not out of criticism, but belief. "If you just have someone who believes in you a little," she says, "you can go so far."
Despite her many achievements, Zellmari resists titles. What matters to her isn’t the nameplate, it’s the moment an idea comes to life. That’s where the magic happens. "When something actually works, when the impact lands – that’s when I know I’m doing what I’m meant to do."
For Zellmari, storytelling is about resonance. It’s about tapping into the emotion that lingers long after a campaign ends. "Some people don’t care about colour grading; they care about the tear rolling down someone’s cheek. That’s what makes a story stick."
When something actually works, when the impact lands – that’s when I know I’m doing what I’m meant to do.
Being Namibian isn’t just part of her work – it’s the whole foundation. "I have to understand how Namibians think, feel, talk. That’s how we bring global ideas home. That’s how we make stories land."
But Zellmari wasn’t always convinced there was a future here. As a young creative, she thought she’d have to leave Namibia to thrive. Today, she sees the opposite. "I came back and saw something growing. A creative spark. Momentum. And I knew I had to be part of it."
To young Namibians, she says: be curious, be multidisciplinary, raise your hand for things you don’t know how to do yet – and then figure it out. "That’s how I’ve built my whole career. Say yes first, and grow into it."
Zellmari Brandt is a woman who turns vision into action and ideas into movement. She’s not just telling the Namibian story. She’s building the future of it.
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At Omba Arts each creation carries the hands and the heart of its maker. Omba is a celebration of Namibian creative soul, it preserves culture and empowers women. Omba Arts is where Namibian stories come to life, not in books but in jewellery, baskets and brush strokes.
From functional ceramics to beautifully sculpted works of art, each piece is crafted with passion and dedication, transforming creativity into tangible beauty. Where tradition meets innovation. Visit the Namibian Craft Centre to explore breathtaking ceramic art!
The Namibia Craft Centre is located in the heart of the city and has become known as the leading retail space for handmade crafts, gifts, and curios in Namibia. It provides a platform for Namibian handicrafts ranging from jewellery to carved tree roots.
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Carrying the Spirit of the 2025 RMB & Wilderness Ride for Rangers Forward
The dust has settled on the rugged trails of Namibia’s northwest, but the spirit of the 2025 RMB & Wilderness Ride for Rangers is still alive and riding strong. What began as four days of grit, sweat, and awe in one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas has now become something far greater — a movement of purpose, passion, and impact.
This year’s Ride, hosted by Venture Media and supported by RMB Namibia, Wilderness, CYMOT, Superspar, and The Taste Academy, once again proved that conservation is strongest when people come together. The event raised critical funds for the rangers, game guards, and community custodians who safeguard black rhinos, desert-adapted elephants, lions, hyenas, and countless other species that define Namibia’s wild identity.
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Every pedal stroke, every steep climb, and every kilometer covered translates into tangible support for those working on the frontlines of conservation. Funds raised through Ride for Rangers directly assist with:
• Equipment and gear for rangers – from uniforms and boots to radios and binoculars.
• Training and capacity-building – ensuring rangers have the skills to track wildlife, prevent poaching, and respond to emergencies.
• Community empowerment – supporting projects that create jobs, improve livelihoods, and foster coexistence between people and wildlife.
• Research and monitoring – strengthening conservation science for species like the black rhino and brown hyena.
For many rangers, the Ride is more than just an event — it’s a show of solidarity. “When we see people ride such distances for us, we know we are not alone,” said one game guard working in the Kunene region. “It gives us strength to keep protecting, even on the hardest days.”
Formerly known as Ride for Rhinos , the Ride for Rangers has grown into a platform that celebrates not just one species, but the entire interconnected web of life that thrives in Namibia’s wild spaces. It honours the quiet heroes in duststained boots, the trackers who know every footprint, and the communities whose futures are tied to the land.
None of this would be possible without the committed support of the sponsors and partners who made the 2025 Ride for Rangers such a success.
RMB Namibia: for championing conservation innovation and believing in the power of collaboration.
Wilderness: for providing not only logistical support but also decades of conservation leadership in Namibia.
CYMOT: for ensuring riders and rangers alike have the gear to keep moving forward.
Superspar: for sponsoring the groceries that fueled us across the desert.
The Taste Academy’s Rhona and Louis: for turning bush meals into unforgettable celebrations.
And finally, to the crew, riders and participants who gave their all — your sweat, laughter, and perseverance will echo far beyond the gravel tracks you conquered. You have helped write the next chapter of Namibia’s conservation story.
The 2025 Ride may be over, but the mission is far from complete. Planning is already underway for the next chapter of Ride for Rangers , with hopes of drawing even more riders, sponsors, and conservation champions into this shared movement.
Because in Namibia, the wild cannot protect itself. It takes rangers.
It takes communities. It takes all of us.
And that is why we ride.
Scan the QR code to watch the official video of the 2025 RMB & Wilderness Ride for Rangers — and experience the grit, the spirit, and the purpose that powered this year’s journey.
Clear cobalt skies stretch above white, willowy grasslands. Rocky peaks rise among scattered shrubs. Solitary gravel roads are occasionally interrupted by capacious, sandy riverbeds. Here, the wilderness opens to sweeping plains, filled with mopane woodlands and dotted with hardy shepherd’s trees sculpted by the wind. Along the way, we encounter scenes of daily, rural life: sheep and goat herders, small farming settlements, and roadside stalls selling rough cuts of quartz and semi-precious gemstones. As we venture further into the semi-arid terrain of Damaraland, the landscape begins to transform, with both the vegetation and its inhabitants adapting to the region’s rugged geography.
Nearly 75 km west of the small town of Kamanjab, a wellmaintained gravel road leads us to Hoada Campsite. Turning in at the entrance, I begin to understand why Hoada’s fascinating topography has been touted as the campsite’s main drawcard: wedged between immense grey granite boulders, the camping spots have been seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Mopane trees, undeterred, seemingly sprout from the rocks. This striking geology evokes a sense of the surreal and, at first glance, an immemorial place. I keep expecting a dinosaur to casually appear from behind a boulder at any moment.
Set against this towering backdrop, the massive stones carve out natural nooks and clever crannies, with eight spacious campsites – six designed for groups up to eight and two built for larger crews of up to fourteen – created for every kind of expedition. The larger camping sites include separate male and female ablution facilities, making life in the bush a little
easier. Each site comes equipped with a practical kitchen area with running water and a washbasin. For those seeking a little extra comfort without the hassle of pitching a tent, Hoada also features four beautifully appointed permanent tents. These come fully furnished with comfy beds, bedside tables, a handy bench and private bathrooms skilfully constructed just behind each tent – glamping at its finest. Showers here are heated the traditional way: wood-fired “donkey” boilers, which the staff keep going morning and evening to ensure there is always hot water.
It is in one of these permanent tents that we gratefully set down our dust-covered backpacks. Parched yet relishing the warmer air, we make our way up the cobbled steps to the bar and deck, shaded by an old chestnut tree with large, pointed leaves sprawling over the timber flooring. Once a waterhole frequented by wildlife, the nearby splash pool has been reshaped into a welcoming oasis for campers. It blends so naturally into the landscape, you would think it had always been there. Like the rest of Hoada, the design favours subtlety over show: eco-friendly, and with a minimal carbon footprint. The result is complementary, rather than intrusive. Stark against an amber-dappled sky, the rocky outcrops of the Etendeka Plateau stand silhouetted in front of us. We pause, drinks in hand, to take in the view.
Close encounter
The campsite also features easily accessible hiking routes that meander between the rock formations. Eager to stretch our legs after a long drive, we set out to explore a nearby trail and manage, just, to sidestep a horned adder (a small, stout snake endemic to Southern Africa), blissfully burrowed into
the sand-baked sand, soaking up the last dregs of summer before the winter months start to set in. Our startled gasps catch the attention of a cluster of Namibian campers, who quickly form a circle around the seemingly nonchalant – yet highly venomous – viper. A few cautiously ecstatic photos are snapped, before some pleasantries are exchanged (ranging from “Look how well it blends into the sand” to “You were just an inch from a bite!” and “Did you travel from Windhoek today?”). It is a spontaneous gathering sparked by local fascination. In a quintessentially Namibian move, one of the onlookers casually asks for a set of braai tongs from the nearest campsite. With practised ease – clearly not his first time – he expertly ushers our scaly companion away from the main path into the thorny undergrowth across the track. Surprise sighting aside, we venture on!
A pioneer in community-based conservation Hoada Campsite falls under the same management as Grootberg Lodge, located just 25 km away, and is wholly owned by the community through the ≠Khoadi-//Hôas Conservancy. In the Nama/Damara language, Hoada (pronounced “Waada”) loosely translates to a term meaning “everybody”. True to its name, the campsite has become widely recognised as a pioneer in communal stewardship and conservation success.
The conservancy is home to a significant population of desertadapted elephants, black rhinos and lions. In the past, this abundance often led to frequent human-wildlife conflict, as well as a steep decline in wildlife numbers due to uncontrolled hunting and poaching. Since its registration, the ≠ Khoadi-// Hôas Conservancy has introduced a compensation scheme to reduce the financial burden of such conflict, setting a benchmark for others in the integration of wildlife, livestock and water resources. The conservancy has ensured farmers have elevated water reservoirs, enclosed by a sturdy stone wall to deter curious, yet occasionally aggressive elephants eager to quench their thirst. Today, wildlife numbers continue to recover steadily within the conservancy. Visitors now have the rare chance to witness these endangered animals, unfenced and undisturbed, in their natural environment.
While staying at the campsite, guests can prebook activities offered by Grootberg Lodge (spending the day out before returning to the campsite) or opt for an indulgent camping experience at Hoada itself. One such offering is the Rhino Sleepout: a two-night, fully catered camping trip that pairs the thrill of tracking desert-adapted black rhinos with the wonder of sleeping beneath a quiet, starlit sky.
Yet the conservancy’s impact reaches far beyond simply safeguarding wildlife. The majority of staff at Hoada Campsite and Grootberg Lodge are proudly employed from within the local community, and many, like our guide Deska, are keen storytellers. Deska joined Hoada Campsite eight years ago, initially as a maintenance hand, before completing his training to become a guide. These days, he welcomes guests on the Damara Cultural Walk, a rich and immersive cultural activity unique to the campsite.
A fresh take on cultural tourism
Early the next morning, while it is still dark, I hear the distinctive “cling!” of steel being placed on our stoep. Stepping outside the tent to inspect, I find a Stanley flask of hot water and a basket filled with freshly baked muffins. We seize the opportunity to brew some coffee before Deska arrives. For our walk, we plan to visit nearby conservancy farms and homesteads, including a few local households.
Under Deska’s attentive and knowledgeable lead, the area’s ecological treasures soon start to emerge. We slow down, taking time to examine each fluttering leaf, quartz-streaked stone, industrious dung beetles and even a lazy lizard, perfectly still and sheltered beneath a single tuft of yellow grass. During our walk, trees and plants are identified for their traditional or medicinal uses. At one point, Deska even pulls out a piece of calcified dassie (rock hyrax) dung from his backpack, black and dense like volcanic rock. When placed in hot water and steamed, it is believed to be beneficial for both men and women’s health.
And then, there is the mopane tree. The wondrous, multipurpose Colophospermum mopane is a resilient, drought-
resistant tree found throughout Southern Africa. The tree is a vital source of food for insects, birds and larger animals, such as the desert-adapted elephant, which happily gorge on its nutrient-rich, butterfly-shaped leaves. The tree even produces edible wax-like gums on its leaves called “mopane manna”, which are collected and eaten by people and monkeys. In the summer months, the leaves of the mopane tree are fed on by large numbers of dark greyish mopane worms, which can reach almost 10 cm long. These worms are stuffed with protein and are eaten as local cuisine, either roasted over fire or dried. Mopane wood is very robust and commonly used for kraals (an enclosure for livestock), building homes, as well as for firewood. Deska plucks a few ripe pods from a branch and hands them to us to peel open. Inside, a flat, kidney-shaped seed is revealed. When rubbed, it produces a sticky resin and emanates a strong, nutty aroma. Extracted from the seed, mopane oil is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its surprisingly effective insect-repellent qualities.
Once on the farmland, Deska’s approach to the cultural walk is refreshingly unscripted and authentic. He reflects on how the ancient traditions and beliefs of the Damara and Nama people have been fundamentally reshaped over recent decades, with many practices fading or entirely forgotten by the younger generation. Opening the door to his own home, he points to a calabash tucked away in the corner. Fresh or curdled milk was
traditionally stored in a calabash, a cultivated plant that not only serves as food but, when dried and hollowed out, becomes a durable container, utensil or bowl. He lets us take it in before mischievously holding out a repurposed plastic container filled with milk. “I want to show the real side of our lives.”
Some traditions, though, have stood the test of time. Scooping water from a bucket and mixing it with a handful of dried cow dung, he demonstrates how to create a claylike paste used to plaster the walls of traditional homes. Every few months, this mixture is reapplied to bolster the walls and keep the house intact. We wrap up the walk with a meal at Deska’s mother’s home, adding an unexpected personal touch to the experience. Plates of steaming oshifima, traditional pap made from ground maize meal, are served with a rich mash of spinach and potato. To round it all off, we are offered a pot of strong, sweet black tea, the flavours earthy and comforting. It is a simple meal, but deeply satisfying, made with care and served with an effortless hospitality that turns strangers into friends.
Just before reaching the campsite, I stop and gesture towards the trees growing straight from solid, unyielding rock, their roots clinging to stone as if by sheer will.
“How is this possible?” I ask Deska, only half-expecting an answer. He smiles and explains. Wind carries fine particles of soil, and over time, it settles into tiny crevices in the rock. Then, against all odds, a seed finds its home, and a tree begins to grow.
It feels like more than just a natural phenomenon. It is a quiet testament to the resilience of this region, how it adapts and endures through drought, heat and the slow passage of time. Much like Hoada Campsite itself: a remote retreat created in a place where few would imagine possible. And yet, it has taken root here, moulded by the land. Thriving.
Madeleen Duvenhage
Namibia’s private sector credit growth accelerated to 5.7% y/y in June 2025, up from 4.1% in May, the fastest pace since early 2020. This marks a turning point in the credit cycle, as monetary easing begins to transmit into the real economy. Notably, growth is being driven by corporate rather than household demand.
Corporate credit rose by 10.6% y/y, the strongest pace since May 2019, underpinned by renewed momentum in mining, energy, retail, and manufacturing. Overdraft facilities surged to 17.4% y/y (up from 6.0%), largely due to real estate developers and manufacturers funding development pipelines and rising output needs. Asset-backed lending also gained traction, with installment and leasing credit growing 17.4% y/y, in line with a 32.2% jump in new vehicle sales. Other loans and advances rose by 8.3% y/y.
Corporate credit stock reached N$50.88 billion, supported by a N$802 million net increase in borrowing during the month. Instalment and leasing credit rose 19.9% y/y (from 13.1% in May), reflecting strong demand for vehicles, machinery, and industrial equipment. Meanwhile, other loans and advances expanded by 9.8% y/y, indicating greater longterm financial planning.
Mortgage lending remained in contraction, falling 0.2% y/y, weighed down by subdued demand for commercial real estate amid high construction costs and delayed large-scale projects.
Overall, corporate borrowing is shifting toward productive and expansionary uses. With the policy rate at 6.75% and potential for a further 25bps cut later in 2025, monetary conditions remain favourable. Importantly, borrowing appears more disciplined and investment-led, not driven by speculative excess.
Household credit rose just 2.4% y/y in June (from 2.5% in May), the slowest pace this year. While the stock of household debt increased from N$205 million to N$69.3 billion, consumers remain cautious due to weak income growth and high living costs.
Mortgage credit contracted by 0.5% y/y for a third straight month. Despite a sizeable N$45.9 billion mortgage book, credit remains concentrated among financially resilient households. Structural affordability barriers, high property prices, elevated interest burdens, and tight lending conditions, continue to exclude lower- and middle-income buyers.
Other loans and advances ticked up to 6.0% y/y, though this does not indicate a broad-based improvement. Middleincome consumers remain selective, facing income pressures and uncertain economic outlooks.
Overdraft credit declined sharply by -17.3% y/y, reflecting ongoing liquidity strain at the lower end of the income spectrum. Rising food, transport, and utility costs have eroded household buffers, making revolving credit unsustainable for many.
In contrast, installment and leasing credit increased 15.4% y/y, driven by vehicle financing among middle- and upperincome earners. Strong car sales and stable interest rates supported this segment.
Household credit demand remains focused on secured, assetlinked borrowing. Without real wage growth or easing inflation, overall household credit growth will likely remain subdued.
The credit mix is becoming more growth-oriented, with rising allocations to investment-linked activity rather than consumption. This shift supports the view that a broad-based recovery is building, particularly in the corporate segment. While households remain constrained, businesses are showing stronger confidence and medium-term planning.
Our Take Inflation Outlook: Risks Reasserting for the Second Half of 2025
Namibia’s annual inflation rate rose to 3.7% in June (from 3.5% in May), ending a short-lived disinflationary trend. Food and housing drove the increase, with offsetting effects from transport.
While inflation remains below 4.0%, upside risks are mounting. We expect inflation to exceed 4.0% in H2 2025, driven by external shocks and imported cost pressures. The temporary relief from fuel price cuts based on earlier over-recoveries is likely to fade.
The 30% U.S. tariff on South African exports, alongside continued U.S.–China trade friction, introduces twin external shocks. These are set to disrupt regional supply chains and inflate local logistics and input costs. In the short term, surplus South African goods may offer some price relief. But as SA production contracts and manufacturers retrench, Namibia will face longer lead times, higher prices for goods, and reduced availability of parts and services.
The weakening rand may temporarily benefit importers but is expected to pass through to domestic inflation as regional suppliers reprice to protect margins. Namibia may thus import volatility alongside goods, reflecting deeper exposure to regional trade distortions.
Global factors, including geopolitical instability in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, compound the risk of a renewed surge in fuel and input prices. Regionally, South Africa’s structural issues (rising costs, food safety shocks, and supply disruptions) are already filtering into Namibia via shared retail and food supply chains.
These risks suggest that the Bank of Namibia’s room for further monetary easing is narrowing. Although PSCE data support continued accommodation, rising imported inflation could limit future rate cuts.
The BoN held its repo rate at 6.75% in June 2025, consistent with market expectations. Its stance reflects a careful balance between supporting recovery and defending the currency peg to the South African rand.
The South African Reserve Bank’s 25bps cut in August narrowed the SA–Namibia rate differential to 25bps. While Namibia’s inflation remains below the BoN’s 4.5% target midpoint, rising cost pressures require a cautious approach.
We maintain our base case for a final 25bps rate cut in H2 2025, lowering the repo rate to 6.50%, conditional on inflation containment and stable external conditions. This would provide welcome relief for interest-sensitive sectors.
A modest cut could have several benefits:
• Lower household borrowing costs across mortgages, overdrafts, and personal loans are key to reigniting consumption.
• Support for SME financing, as overdraft credit rose 17.4% y/y in June, indicating liquidity dependence.
• Potential revival in mortgage uptake, which contracted 0.3% y/y in June, as lower rates improve affordability.
Encouragingly, monetary transmission is gaining traction. PSCE growth at 5.7% y/y is the strongest since March 2020, suggesting a positive inflection in credit dynamics. We expect PSCE to exceed 6.0% y/y in H2 2025, driven by:
• A repo rate cut to 6.50% and tighter repo–prime spreads, reducing borrowing costs.
• Stronger corporate appetite for investment in manufacturing, mining, and energy.
• Gradual household credit recovery, especially in secured lending for vehicles and durable goods.
Namibia’s credit landscape is slowly improving, led by disciplined and growth-focused corporate borrowing. While household credit remains cautious, signs of resilience are emerging in specific segments. Inflation risks, largely external, could constrain policy flexibility, but the BoN’s current stance appears prudent. If global conditions remain manageable, further policy easing could reinforce momentum positioning Namibia for a more credit-led, investment-driven recovery in the second half of 2025.
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The National Housing Enterprise (NHE) and the Ondangwa Town Council have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at addressing the acute housing needs of residents in the town, particularly low-income earners. The MoU paves the way for close collaboration between the two entities in order to formalise informal settlements under the national Informal Settlement Upgrading Project (ISUP), which is designed to deliver decent affordable housing to residents most affected by the housing crisis.
Working towards an ambitious national target of constructing 2,000 housing units by April 2026, NHE management have recently embarked on a countrywide fact-finding mission to enable local authorities in the country to canvas for land to support the 2,000 target for the 2025/2026 financial year. The engagements proved positive, with over 2,500 plots already identified in towns including Swakopmund, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Keetmanshoop, Mariental, Eenhana and Nkurenkuru.
As part of its ongoing efforts to tackle the housing backlog in the country, the chairperson of the NHE Board of Directors, Ms Toska Sem, recently handed over 30 newly constructed houses to beneficiaries in Omuthiya. This latest batch of houses brings the total number of homes delivered by the NHE in Omuthiya over the past year to 80, following the handover of 50 units last year.
The project will see beneficiaries paying monthly instalments of N$400 per month for a one-bedroom house, while three-bedroom houses will have monthly repayments of approximately N$1200 per month. “This is the impact that we have been yearning for as a country where low-income earners are offered opportunities to own formal structures in urban centres, thereby uplifting their economic positions,” said Sem. She commended all local authorities who have responded positively, reiterating the NHE’s readiness to engage beyond the parameters of the ISUP to deliver affordable housing to all.
Housing shortages continue to affect low-income Namibians, but the NHE remains committed to ensuring that more people in this vulnerable category gain access to formal housing through strategic, sustainable partnerships, while calling on all other local authorities to join this noble initiative. According to Sem, the NHE has crafted the 2025/26-2028/29 Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) to guide its operations over the next five years. “The ISBP, which has particular focus on business growth, operational excellence and customer centricity, also takes cognisance of the government’s directive for the NHE to deliver at least 2,000 houses annually for the next five years,” she added.
Maggie Forcelledo Paz
Namibia’s Data Protection Bill to be tabled in September
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) will table a Data Protection Bill in September 2025, aimed at safeguarding individual rights, strengthening public trust in digital platforms, and creating a safer environment for online business.
Addressing the Anti-Financial Crime Conference in Windhoek, Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, said the legislation would also support innovation by providing clear rules for the ethical use of data. As part of the same digital transformation drive, the Ministry will introduce electronic signatures by February 2026 under the Electronic Transactions Act of 2019, giving them the same legal standing as handwritten signatures.
She added that the innovation would boost Namibia’s competitiveness in the digital economy by enabling businesses to close deals faster, simplifying cross-border transactions, and improving access to government services. The system is also expected to promote financial inclusion by removing geographical and logistical barriers, allowing even remote communities to participate in formal economic activity.
The Minister also announced the launch of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness assessment report earlier in the week, which evaluates Namibia’s preparedness and key indicators for adopting AI.
Government scheme re-employs over 2,400 fishermen
The Government Employment Redress Programme (GERP) has facilitated the re-employment of 2,483 fishermen since its launch in 2020, according to a recent assessment by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR).
“2,483 fishermen employed, with 550 in horse mackerel and 1,933 in hake. Ministers reaffirm commitment to redress and announce plans to expand GERP’s reach,” said IPPR Researcher Frederico Links.
GERP was introduced by the Cabinet to address job losses linked to the 2015 illegal industrial action and the fallout from the Fishrot scandal.
Mass resignations in 2022 and 2024 raised concerns about transparency and alleged favouritism in job placements.
A Select Committee of the National Assembly was established to investigate the reasons behind the mass resignations under the employment redress programme. The committee compiled a report, to which the then minister, Calle Schlettwein, issued a response,” he said.
Bank of Namibia to buy gold from Navachab and B2Gold for reserves
The Bank of Namibia (BoN) will begin acquiring gold from local producers Navachab and B2Gold as part of its strategy to diversify the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
“Our goal is to acquire gold from local mines, namely Navachab and B2Gold. We intend for the gold we acquire to meet international standards set by the London Bullion Market Association,” said Governor Johannes !Gawaxab.
The gold, which will be refined to 99.9% purity, will be stored in the central bank’s vaults and form part of Namibia’s official reserves.
!Gawaxab stressed that “the acquisition of gold is strategic and long-term. While some may argue that we are buying at a high point, our focus is on long-term stability and strategic purposes rather than short-term gains,”.
The BoN has already engaged with both Navachab and B2Gold, holding several meetings with mine management.
!Gawaxab noted that Namibia lacks a refinery capable of producing gold at the required purity level, as local mines can only process it to 85%. To address this, the central bank has initiated talks with refineries in South Africa.
He added that the Bank has also consulted the Ministry of Industrialisation, Mines and Energy as part of the process.
Namibia urged to fast-track reforms to secure place as Africa’s next energy frontier
Namibia must accelerate legal and institutional reforms to turn its recent oil and gas discoveries into lasting economic benefits, SNC Managing Partner and President of the Association of International Energy Negotiators (AIEN), Shakwa Nyambe, told delegates at the third Namibia Oil and Gas Conference in Windhoek.
“Until 2022, Namibia’s oil and gas history was defined by dry wells and unrealised potential. That changed with Shell’s Graff discovery and TotalEnergies’ Venus find, which have spurred unprecedented exploration activity,” he said.
Nyambe stressed that to maintain momentum, Namibia must act quickly on a series of reforms.
“We must fast-track the establishment of an independent Upstream Petroleum Unit to oversee exploration and production activities. This requires amendments to the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act,” he said.
“With an estimated six billion barrels of oil and 2.2 trillion cubic feet of gas, Namibia has the potential to become a major African energy hub,” Nyambe concluded. “But realising that potential will require stable policies, transparent licensing, infrastructure upgrades, and skilled workforce development. If we get this right, the benefits could transform our economy for generations.”
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Lifestyle products: wellness beyond skin
A few spritzes of aromatherapy spray can energise your morning or help you unwind in the evening. Hand and foot balms, applied after cleansing or before bed, soften rough skin and relieve fatigue – ideal for those constantly on the go.
Healing Earth offers more than skincare. It’s a mindful way to care for yourself, using Africa’s natural heritage to elevate everyday wellbeing and promote balance.
Bringing together government and private sector representatives from across the African continent and the United States of America (USA), the US-Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola served as a platform for Namibia to showcase its investment potential, strengthen bilateral trade ties, and engage key stakeholders in priority sectors such as energy, logistics, green hydrogen and sustainable development. The summit was hosted by the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) and the government of the Republic of Angola, under the theme “Pathways to Prosperity: A Shared Vision for U.S.-Africa Partnership”.
Speaking at the Invest in Namibia session, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah assured investors that Namibia is open and ready for investment for both local and foreign investors. “For the foreign investors, your space is more in major industries such as minerals extraction and value addition, while sectors such as retail among others could be left to the small local businesspeople to allow them to grow to the levels where they could also invest outside Namibia,” she said.
The president reminded attendees of the high unemployment rate in Namibia, currently standing at 46%, and emphasised the need to address this issue as a matter of urgency to ensure that Namibia continues to be a competitive and attractive destination for investment.
She stressed that inclusive economic growth must be at the centre of all investment efforts, noting that creating decent jobs for the Namibian people, especially the youth, is key to unlocking the country’s full potential. On the topic of energy, the president highlighted that Namibia is capturing the attention of the global energy community thanks to its recent oil and gas discoveries and its abundant clean, renewable energy sources – a critical foundation for the production of green hydrogen.
She noted that these developments not only position Namibia as a future energy hub, but also place the country at the forefront of global efforts to decarbonise and combat climate change.
Shared prosperity is better enjoyed than one-sided prosperity. These were the sentiments of Dr Nangula Uaandja, CEO of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB). “Africa will not only be a source of talent for the future, but it will also be a source of consumption,” said Uaandja.
Namibia’s global exports increased to US$6.5 billion in 2024 from US$4.7 billion in 2019. Imports have also seen an increase from US$6.2 billion in 2019 to US$8.8 billion in 2024. According to Uaandja, Namibian exports to African countries increased substantially, doubling between 2020 and 2024, noting that Namibia has been ranked second in the Standard Bank Africa Trade Barometer for overall trade potential. In terms of Namibia-US trade, exports to the US in 2024 stood at US$345.4 million while imports from the US stood at US$563 million. China has remained the largest shareholder of foreign direct investment (FDI) stock over the years at 30% followed by South Africa with just over 22%. The US and UK, however, are tied as the fifth largest source of FDI for Namibia, standing at 3.7%. “Although the overall US foreign direct investment to the world has decreased, their investment in Africa has increased. Therefore, Namibia has the potential to attract more US investments,” Uaandja added.
The opportunities are endless! Namibia has an abundance of natural resources and is rich in minerals such as uranium, diamonds, gold, lithium, copper, zinc, rare earth elements, fish stocks and arable land that offers vast potential across mining, agriculture etc. Its political and economic stability boasts a strong record of democratic governance, rule of law and sound macroeconomic policies, creating a secure and predictable environment for investors. Namibia’s strategic location offers direct access to international shipping routes via the port of Walvis Bay. Boasting an investor-friendly regulatory framework, Namibia supports private sector growth through transparent laws, investor protection and an improving ease-of-doing-business environment.
With a population of three million, Namibia is becoming a global frontrunner in green hydrogen and renewable energy, offering significant investment opportunities in solar, wind and sustainable energy infrastructure. As a member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), SADC and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), investors have access to regional and continental markets. With a youthful and adaptable workforce supported by institutions dedicated to skills development, Namibia offers investors a future-ready pool well-suited for innovation and growth in emerging sectors.
Maggie Forcelledo Paz
Between the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean and the diamond-rich southern coast of Namibia stands an impressive man-made structure known as the Namdeb seawall. At Namdeb’s Southern Coastal Mines, the mining process begins with accreting beaches. By depositing sand from overburden, the shoreline is pushed back to create minable areas. Standing at seven to ten metres tall, the seawalls are constructed on these newly created beaches to act as a barrier that enables continuous and uninterrupted coastal mining in all sea conditions.
Namdeb has spent years refining the design and purpose of the seawall, ensuring that it is strong and fit for the dynamic and often unpredictable environment in which it stands. The seawall has over the years evolved from a simple structure into a sophisticated system that depends on accurate data, smart planning and constant monitoring.
Amongst the teams ensuring structural stability, Namdeb’s dedicated team of surveyors is working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep this barrier functional, safe and smart. Before any section of the seawall is built, Namdeb’s surveying team gets to work by collecting detailed data along the shoreline, focusing on a key marker known as the +2 metre contour line, which helps to indicate how much land has been successfully accreted and what space is safe to mine. In addition, bathymetric surveys are conducted to map the seafloor’s shape and slope beneath the water’s surface. This combined information is used to create a full coastal profile, extending from the deep sea to the shore.
These datasets are shared with external coastal engineers, who assess the risk and confirm whether the planned seawall
section is safe to construct. Once approved, the surveyors go back into the field, staking out construction boundaries, conducting regular spot checks and verifying that the build matches the design. The construction of the seawall is merely the beginning. The real challenge lies in making sure the structure can withstand the force of nature over time.
In 2018, Namdeb experienced a significant breach in parts of its seawall. A breach occurs when the protective barrier is compromised, allowing seawater to penetrate and cause flooding or structural damage to the mining area. This incident became a significant turning point for the company, prompting a thorough review of the seawall design and fuelling more innovative solutions. In response, Namdeb implemented key design improvements, most notably setting the wall 20 metres further back from the high-water line and raising it by two metres. This strategic change ensured that incoming waves break further away from the wall, reducing direct impact and minimising the risk of erosion and future breaches.
True to Namdeb’s resilient spirit, this challenge became an opportunity for learning and innovation, strengthening our infrastructure and proving, once again, that we emerge stronger and more prepared with every obstacle we overcome. Despite its strength, the seawall faces a constantly changing
coastal environment, with storm surges that can at times be severe. Namdeb’s remote location also means that external support is limited. Over time, the company has developed inhouse capabilities to maintain and service survey equipment, operate sea rescue vessels and respond to emergencies without delay.
Aligned to the changing times, technology has become an essential part of protecting the seawall. Today, laser systems are used to track wave run-up even at night, measuring how far the whitewater reaches and how it compares to baseline data. This gives the team a real-time, 24-hour picture of how the sea is behaving, especially during storms.
Supporting the laser system is a wave buoy anchored offshore, which continuously records wave height and frequency. Meanwhile, piezometers installed inside the wall measure the pressure building within its structure, providing key data for detecting stress before it becomes a problem. All of this information feeds into Namdeb’s storm preparedness strategy. Aligned to this strategy, coastal engineers provide updated weather forecasts, which are then compared to live data. If the numbers hit a certain threshold, pre-planned response actions are triggered through what is called a TARP (Trigger Action Response Plan). At the heart of the seawall’s defence are the people who protect it every day, namely the stripping,
bedrock, dewatering, security and load and haul teams, as well as the entire Namdeb operation. Safety is our utmost priority, and it begins with empowering our employees. Every individual working near the seawall undergoes geotechnical hazard awareness training, equipping them with the knowledge to identify early warning signs, whether it is a minor ground shift, a subtle surface crack or unusual ground movement. By recognising and reporting these signs early, employees play a vital role in preventing incidents, ensuring quick and effective responses, as well as safeguarding both people and operations.
The Namdeb seawall is more than just a static structure; it is a living system of engineering, innovation and vigilance. It stands strong, enabling Namdeb to mine where once there was no land, and to do so responsibly, in line with our purpose of “Mining For Good”. This means protecting our people, preserving the coastline and ensuring that the benefits of mining extend far beyond the operation itself.
The Namibia Airports Company (NAC), in partnership with the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has donated N$500,000 to Tubusis Primary School, a rural school located near Usakos in the Erongo Region.
The donation, which was facilitated under the auspices of the Public Enterprises (PE) CEO Forum, was officially handed over during the Forum’s activities on 23 July 2025 in Walvis Bay.
The funds will go toward the construction of a new classroom at Tubusis Primary School, with the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) appointed to carry out the building works.
“We are proud to invest in the future of our children. This contribution reflects our belief that quality education must be accessible to every child — no matter where they are. Through partnerships like these, we’re not just building classrooms — we’re building Namibia”, NAC CEO Bisey /Uirab.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India’s visit to Namibia marked a significant moment in the longstanding diplomatic, economic and cultural relations between Namibia and India.
During his stay, Prime Minister Modi held high-level talks with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and other senior government officials, with the two nations reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across several key sectors, including defence, education, health, trade, culture, energy and technology. Prime Minister Modi described the bond between the two nations as strengthened by shared democratic values and common dreams of a brighter future. “In the times ahead, we will continue to walk together, hand in hand, on the path of development,” said Modi. The visit marked the signing of a series of bilateral agreements focusing on enhanced collaboration in various sectors.
Addressing members of parliament, Prime Minister Modi announced a major step in digital cooperation with Namibia, which became one of the first countries in the region to adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system. In the health sector, Namibia has welcomed India’s proposal to establish a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in the country under the Pharmacy of the World initiative. The proposed facility is expected to enhance regional health security and aligns with Namibia’s broader goal of strengthening domestic health production capacities. Equally significant was India’s proposal to establish a Namibia-India Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Namibia. “We believe this centre will serve as a motivation for innovation, skills development and entrepreneurship, especially for youth and women,” said President Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The president called for the two nations to stand firm in their call for multilateralism to remain at the centre of global affairs. “It is also important for our two countries to maintain regular consultations on vital issues such as the need for the reform of the United Nations Security Council and other multilateral institutions,” she noted.
The two leaders emphasised the importance of sustainable development and mutual investment as drivers of inclusive economic growth. Modi also engaged with members of the Indian diaspora and visited cultural and historical sites such as Heroes’ Acre. The visit also marked the conferment of Namibia’s highest civilian order award, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, on Modi. In acceptance, Modi reflected on the symbolism of the Welwitschia plant, describing it as no ordinary plant, but rather a representation of resilience and heritage. “It is like the elders of the family, who have seen times change. It is a symbol of the struggles, courage and culture of the Namibian people,” he said. Modi’s visit formed part of a historic eight-day tour across five nations, namely Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia, showcasing India’s deepening ties with the Global South. The prime minister called for collaborative action to create a future defined not by power, dominance or exclusion but by partnership, dialogue and equity.
Maggie Forcelledo Paz
This year, you spoke, and the results are here! Across every category, your votes crowned the best of the best: the restaurants you can’t stop talking about, the personalities who inspire, the places that feel like home, and the services that make life better. These are our 2025 winners, the people and places that truly make Namibia shine. Congratulations to every winner and nominee! Your passion, talent, and dedication are what make Namibia extraordinary.
Where’s the best place to hit the gym?
Tura Bootcamp
Where do you go for sports and recreational activities?
Tura Bootcamp
Which spa or wellness center helps you relax and recharge?
Life Day Spa
Where do you get the best nail treatments?
Life Day Spa
Which pre-primary or daycare center gives little ones the best start?
Delta Kindergarten
Where would you send your child for a great primary school education?
Delta Primary School
Where do you think high schoolers get the best education?
Windhoek High School
Where would you go for further studies or higher education?
UNAM
Which vocational training center provides top-notch skills development?
NIMT
Which charity does the most for health and wellness?
CAN – Cancer Association of Namibia
Which organization is doing amazing work in animal welfare?
SPCA-Windhoek
Which organization makes the biggest impact in education and youth development?
Havana Charity Foundation
Who is leading the way in environmental conservation?
N/a’an ku sê Foundation
Which charity makes the biggest difference in social services and community development?
Havana Charity Foundation
Where do you go for the best nightlife and drinks?
Goodfellas Pizza & Pub
Which coffee shop serves the best brew?
Seattle Coffee
Where’s your go-to bottle store for your favorite drinks? Where do you get your dop for the weekend?
Metro Liquor
Where do you pop in for a quick drink at your local neighborhood pub?
Nico’s Pub & Grill
Where do you shop for the latest fashion trends?
Mr Price (Grove Mall)
Where do you go to buy locally made fashion or lifestyle products?
Shilongo Leather Works
Where do you do your weekly grocery shopping?
Checkers
Where’s the best place to find fresh produce?
Food Lovers Market
Where do you go for all your hardware and DIY needs?
Pupkewitz Megabuild
Where do you buy home appliances? Game
Which shopping mall or center is your favorite?
Grove Mall
Where’s the best neighborhood convenience store?
Metro Supermarket
Which Namibian musician do you love the most?
Gazza
Which local sports star makes you proud?
Christine Mboma (Athletics)
Which band always puts on a great performance?
One Blood
Who is the funniest local comedian?
Martin Pombili
Which influencer do you follow for great content?
Maria Nepembe
Which visual artist creates the best work?
Nicky Marais
Which lodge or safari camp offers the best experience?
Etosha Safari Lodge
Which hotel do you love staying at?
Strand Hotel Swakopmund
Where do you go for a cozy bed & breakfast stay?
Arebbusch Travel Lodge
Where’s your favorite weekend getaway spot?
Midgard Country Estate
Where’s the best place to pitch your tent and camp?
Etosha Safari Camp
Where can you enjoy a luxurious ‘glamping’ experience?
Etosha Safari – Camping2Go
Which travel agent do you trust to plan your trips?
Gondwana Collection Travel Centre
What’s your go-to ride or taxi service?
Yango
Where do you go for all your bicycle needs?
CYMOT
Where do you go for new tyres or car maintenance?
TrenTyre
Where do you find the best deals on second-hand cars?
Pupkewitz Auto Windhoek
Who do you rely on when you need to rent a car?
Namibia2Go
Which fuel station do you always stop at to fill up?
TotalEnergies Wika
Who do you trust to fix your car after an accident?
Star Body Works
Where would you go to buy a brandnew car?
Indongo Toyota Windhoek
Where do you take your car for a reliable service or repairs?
Indongo Toyota
Which insurance company gives you the best service?
Old Mutual
Where do you bank for the best experience?
FNB
Which law firm do you trust the most?
Dr Weder Kauta Hoveka Inc
Where do you go for top medical and health services?
Lady Pohamba Private Hospital
Best Medical Aid
NHP
Which pharmacy is your go-to for medication and wellness products?
Dischem
Who is the most reliable internet provider?
Paratus
Which courier service never lets you down?
Nampost
Which plumbing company do you trust for home or business repairs?
Polka Plumbing
Where do you go for electrical services that get the job done?
Otto’s Electrical Services
Who offers the best IT support services?
BCX Namibia
Which accounting or audit firm do you trust with your finances?
PWC
Where do you take the family out for a great meal?
RocoMamas
Where’s the best place for sushi or Asian cuisine?
Cape Town Fish Market
Who serves the freshest seafood in town?
Cape Town Fish Market
Where’s your go-to pizza spot?
Debonairs Pizza
Where’s your favorite spot for a hearty breakfast or bistro-style meal?
Mugg & Bean
Where do you go for the best kapana experience?
Single Quarters
Who makes the juiciest ribs in town? Spur
Where do you go for a top-quality steak meal?
Butcher’s Block
Where do you get the best slap chips?
Hakahana Service Station
Who serves the tastiest burgers?
RocoMamas
Where do you buy the best biltong? Wilhelmstal Padstal
Where do you always go to get your weekend braai meat?
Friedel’s Rand Street Butchery
Where in Nam would you host the wedding of your dreams?
Droombos
Where do you go for top-notch conferences or corporate events? Droombos
Who serves up the best meals at weddings or big celebrations? Droombos
Where do you go for the freshest and most beautiful flowers?
Flowered Earth
Growing up in Namibia and playing rugby in high school taught me many things: discipline, teamwork and the importance of preparation. But one memory stands out. Before some of our training sessions, we would have to remove the football posts that were still set up on the same field. The space was not exclusively ours – we had to share it. It might have been inconvenient at times, but looking back, it was a valuable lesson: infrastructure, when shared wisely, can serve more than one purpose and more than one team.
That principle lies at the heart of a conversation Namibia must have about the strategic synergies between our well-established mining sector and the rapidly emerging oil and gas industry.
Mining has long been the backbone of Namibia’s economy. Now, with world-class oil and gas discoveries off our coast, we are entering a new era. But rather than building parallel systems, we have a rare opportunity to think collectively. Just like that high school sports field, logistics, infrastructure and talent pools developed for one sector can –and should – support the other.
ordinary Namibians. When the mining and oil & gas sectors thrive, government revenues rise. That fiscal space must then translate to improved infrastructure, better schools, modern hospitals and opportunities for all.
We have one shot at getting this right. The world has shown us both sides of the extractive coin – economies lifted by resource wealth, and others burdened by inequality and missed opportunities. Namibia must chart a different course, where value is created and shared.
At RMB, we see our role as far more than that of a financier. We are partners in building ecosystems. With deep expertise across mining, oil, gas and energy, we help structure innovative funding solutions, support local supply chain development and engage policymakers to create bankable, sustainable outcomes.
A port upgraded for offshore drilling can support bulk mineral exports just as effectively. Roads, power, water and telecommunication networks required for mine operations are just as essential to oil and gas field logistics. Training centres that develop welders, engineers and technicians for mines could upskill Namibians for energy installations with only minor adjustments. We do not need two of everything – we need smart, coordinated investments that serve both.
This is not just about cost savings; it is about unlocking accelerated growth and using shared infrastructure to reduce duplication, fast-track project timelines and extend the impact of every dollar spent.
The true measure of success for both sectors will not be found in balance sheets alone. It will be seen in the quality of life for
At RMB, we see our role as far more than that of a financier. We are partners in building ecosystems. With deep expertise across mining, oil, gas and energy, we help structure innovative funding solutions, support local supply chain development and engage policymakers to create bankable, sustainable outcomes.
Mining and oil & gas are not rivals; they are teammates playing different positions on the same field. Namibia’s moment is now. If we can remove the proverbial goalposts, see the bigger field and play together, we can achieve something far greater than the sum of our parts.
RMB is proud to walk alongside our clients, government and communities on this journey – enabling not just deals, but a better future for all Namibians.
Olavi Hangula Oil & Gas, Energy and Mining Sector Relationship Manager
From 9–12 September 2025, Windhoek will host a vibrant celebration of young minds as learners from all 14 regions of Namibia gather at the NUST Engineering Basement for the grand finale of the National Science Fair, National Science Quiz, and the Namibia Mathematics Olympiad. These flagship events, hosted by the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST), promise to ignite curiosity, showcase talent, and inspire future careers in science and innovation.
As Platinum Sponsor for the third consecutive year, Debmarine Namibia is proud to stand behind this initiative that continues to grow in reach and impact. Our commitment to these events is rooted in our belief that investing in STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—is investing in Namibia’s future.
This year, the numbers speak volumes:
• 150 learners will compete in the National Science Fair
• 84 learners will battle it out in the Mathematics Olympiad
• 39 learners will test their knowledge in the National Science Quiz
• A total of 54 judges will lend their expertise to ensure fair and rigorous evaluation
The journey to this finale has been nothing short of inspiring. Over 6,712 learners participated in Round 1 of the Mathematics Olympiad, with representation from every region. Namibia’s talent shone brightly on the continental stage at the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad in Botswana, where one learner earned a medal, three received fully funded scholarships to the African Olympiad Academy, and four proudly represented Namibia at the International Mathematics Olympiad in Australia.
Meanwhile, the National Science Fair was launched nationwide, engaging learners at school and circuit levels, supported by 110 trained judges to uphold consistent standards. The National Science Quiz saw 4,855 learners participate in its first round, demonstrating the growing enthusiasm for science-based learning.
At Debmarine Namibia, science and innovation are not just buzzwords, they are the backbone of our business. Recovering marine diamonds from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean requires cutting-edge technology, rigorous research, and a highly skilled workforce. Our custom-built vessels operate in environments where visibility is limited and precision is paramount. This is why we invest heavily in developing our own talent pipeline through bursaries, trainee programmes, and long-term development initiatives.
“We face a real challenge: a shortage of qualified professionals in marine recovery and related fields. Supporting platforms like these national science events
helps us nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers, and thinkers who will one day lead Namibia’s maritime and technological industries,” said Debmarine Namibia Chief Executive Officer, Willy Mertens.
He added, “STEAM, in particular, teaches the learners how to think critically and solve problems, skills that are essential in our line of work. Investing in competitions like these spark curiosity and confidence in learners, encouraging them to pursue careers that will not only benefit our company but also strengthen Namibia’s global competitiveness.” We salute NCRST and all corporate sponsors and every learner, teacher involved in this year’s events. Together, we are building a brighter, smarter future, one equation, one experiment, one question at a time.
A glimpse of the stunning, fascinating, and boundary-pushing moments happening across Africa and beyond this September
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35
September - Marks spring equinox, when day and night are perfectly balanced across Namibia, it’s a subtle shift, but a beautiful time to enjoy wildflowers blooming along hiking trails and game drives in full springtime glory.
kilometers - The coastline stretches from Swakopmund to Walvis Bay. In September, calm spring seas welcome daily boat and catamaran tours where visitors can spot dolphins, cape fur seals, whales, leatherback sea turtles and sunfish.
2500+
Black Rhino - In September sightings peak in Etosha National Park, and Damaraland, where these giants congregate around waterholes making their sighting more predictable and frequent.
28
September - Is the day of the Namibian child, dedicated to raising awareness about children’s rights and the importance of protecting and promoting their well-being.
40
Aircrafts - Daily take offs and touch downs at Hosea Kutako International Airport. September marks the peak of Namibia’s tourism season, with an uptick in safari flyins, chartered flights and coastal gateways, all carefully managed by Namibia’s skilled air traffic controllers.
30 °C
The average temperature in Windhoek in September- warm sunny days with clear skies and cool and comfortable evenings, perfect for exploring the city and nearby hiking trails.
300,00+
Oryx can be seen roaming wide and free, lighting up the plains of Sossusvlei, NamibRand and Etosha National Park in September. As the dry season peaks, these horned antelopes gather in herds, making them easier to spot.
120+
Cocoa farms are in full harvest mode in Sao Tome and Principe in September, offering visitors the chance to explore Sao Tome’s world-class chocolate plantations and taste some of the fresh, fine-flavour cocoa at its source.
ACROSS
3. Famous salt pan visible from space
5. World’s oldest desert
7. White clay pan with ancient camelthorn trees near Sossusvlei
9. Popular crater-like mountain near Usakos
10. Dune-ringed lagoon south of Walvis Bay, 4x4 only
11. Antelope famed for spectacular leaps; rugby nickname
13. Desert-adapted antelope with long spiral horns
14. Tallest animal in Namibia
DOWN
1. Fish River Canyon is the largest in ______
2. Namibia’s largest national park
4. Giant edible “termite mound” mushroom after summer rains
6. Coastal angling town north of Swakopmund
8. Annual migration of these antelope in Khaudum
National Park
12. Region home to Epupa Falls
15. Town known for its wild horses
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.
Tall grass sways in the wind as the zebra pauses, half turned, half hidden. Something holds its attention behind: unseen to us but etched in its stance. The tension between flight and stillness is where wild beauty often lives.
