Namib Independent Issue 169

I don’t know why people mistrust our teams so much but the trend has become problematic and the assistance of the police is needed to get the correct information.

Mr. Niccanor Kakili, an inmate of Walvis Bay Prison who has played a significant role in the establishment of the current training programme.

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Issue 169 - Thurs, 08 Oct 2015 to Wed, 14 Oct 2015Like a newspaper, only better!

Nelson Ashipala, Communications Specialist of the Namibia Statistics Agency, on conducting surveys in coastal homes.

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"Today we received ten computers from the Namibia Literacy Trust with a lot of gratitude."

Continued on Page 3 Continued on Page 3

See Page 5 See Page 4

A whAle of A time At the wAlvisfees See Page 7

SWAITEX Expo opens with record number of exhibitors

Unruly Mondesa residents to "pull up their socks"

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Donna Collins

Mondesa residents have been warned to 'pull up their socks' by the Swakopmund Mayor Councilor Nehemia Salomon, and to stop being a burden to the Municipality through their destructive behaviour.

Addressing the last council meeting, Salamon was less than amused about the manner in which some of the residents behave towards public property. He also complained about various objects like car batteries,

bottles and other solid waste being dropped through the manholes into the sewerage lines, which he says cause serious blockages, costing a lot of time and money to fix.

Another headache which the Municipality is not going to take lightly is the manipulation of the water standpipes in the DRC, where residents break off the valves, allowing the water to continuously gush out. "This is terrible waste of

Donna Collins

The record number of 240 exhibitors taking part in the four-day NCCI SWAITEX (Swakopmund International Trade Expo), which opened on Wednesday, doubled that of last year's figures, demonstrating confidence from the business community whilst inspiring a new breed of entrepreneur.

The much anticipated occasion which exceeded all expectations, was officially opened on Wednesday by Honourable Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, and attracted a wide variety of stalls and stands both inside and outside the Dome Sports Centre, under the theme“ How can we better industrialise the Erongo Region using available resources?”

Once again the expo was hosted

by the NCCI (Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry Swakopmund branch), and was created in addition, to give the upcoming Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) the opportunity to showcase their products whilst networking on both local and international levels.

The NCCI Swakopmund Chairman, Hafeni Heinrich, who together with

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila (centre) officially opened the SWAITEX Expo on Wednesday with a ribbon cutting ceremony, and is seen here in random order with Juuso Kambueshe (Erongo Regional Councillor), Tony Raw (NCCI Walvis Bay), Swakopmund Mayor Nehemia Solomon, and Hafeni Heinrich (Chairperson NCCI Swakomund Branch) and Tarah

Shaanika (CEO NCCI). Photo Donna Collins

Thursday, 08 October 20152 News

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DisClaimer:Namib Independent is published by Halfround Communications CC. all rights are reserved. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within, no liability can be accepted by the publishers or contributors for any errors, misstatements or omissions which may have occurred. The opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. also, the publishers accept no legal liability regarding copyright ownership for material which was supplied directly to the publishers by any of the advertisers or contributors.

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'Feed-A-Paw' the saviour of struggling township pets

Donna Collins

The life giving 'Feed-A-Paw' animal welfare work of Swakopmund mother and daughter team Michelle and Madelaine Strydom carries on unabated, as their weekly feeding in the DRC and Mondessa for hundreds of struggling township pets continues to change the lives of thousands of homeless and starving animals.

The project started in 2014, and caring for the less fortunate animals is a calling for these two women, whose compassion to come to the rescue of the neglected township dogs and cats is a saving grace for these animals that would otherwise live a life of pitiful suffering.

Their 'meals on wheels' which delivers a nutritional plate of food to over 500 dogs during two feeding days a week are just one part of this humanitarian package. The mother and daughter duo also collect animals that are in need of veterinary care, such as those who have been run over, injured, bitten, stabbed or otherwise need to be treated for tick bite fever, STD (sexually transmitted disease), or mange.

This is the only project of its kind in Namibia, and is run purely on donations from the public who assist with the growing food bill and medical costs of the Swakopmund Vet Clinic. To tackle the problem of unwanted litters, Feed-A-Paw has joined forces with the Have-A-Heart national sterilisation initiative, to spay and neuter two animals a week from the township, and it is an integral part of the annual spayathons.

Currently the wheels are in motion for a second spayathon to be held in Swakopmund this year, which is scheduled to take place in the DRC from 31st October to 1st November, with a team of three vets participating. A fund raising drive to collect money for the spaying and neutering of over 65 dogs and 25 cats is underway, and already Feed-A-Paw have over 60 animals on the sterilisation waiting list.

Animals for sterilisation are selected by Madelaine and Michelle, who have become familiar with both the condition and health status of most of the dogs living in the DRC. Many have pet names, and their

regular visits are met with a lot of tail wagging and friendly greetings from the owners of the dogs or cats.

"In the beginning all we had were tears in our eyes.....tears for the hungry, tears for the sick, tears for the dying and tears for all the little innocent suffering souls with their helpless mothers," said Michelle, who said that the noticeable difference in the condition of the animals since they started their feeding project two years ago is heart warming.

"It gives us so much joy to see the results of our efforts, because when you look around at the dogs in the DRC, most of them are now happy, well fed and healthy, with their owners taking better care in looking after them."

Michelle stressed the importance of the Have- A- Heart sterilisation project, which is also a non profit drive. She said that increasing the number of animals that are spayed and neutered prevents the endless litters of unwanted puppies, which reduces the population of dogs in an environment where there is abject poverty.

"We were fortunate to have been part of the spayathon selection earlier this year, when we sterilised more than 80 animals within three days," added Michelle. "So far, in total, we have spayed and neutered about 150 dogs and cats within DRC this year through the Have-A-Heart programme, and the transformation that these animals go through is amazing, but we still need to accomplish so much more."

All donations big and small are appreciated to keep this life giving project going, and if you cannot help with food, bowls, maize meal and other necessary items to fill their tummies, the Feed-A-Paw Facebook page has all the details where a financial donation can be made into the Swakopmund Vet account.

To assist with the fund raising endeavours towards the sterilisation of township animals and prevent unwanted litters, donations can be made to: Have A Heart SwakopmundBank Windhoek Swakopmund BranchSavings Acc # 2000 296 537

Feed-A-Paw are a regular feature in the Swakopmund DRC offering regular meals to the underprivileged township pets. Here helper Suzaan Pienaar, with the driving force mother and daughter team Madelaine

and Michelle Strydom. (Photo: Donna Collins)

3 Thursday, 08 October 2015 News

Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 1

Workers Union signs wage deal after years of stalling

precious water and once again costly to repair."

These two townships were under more fire, when the mayor touched on the subject of unruly youth groups, who attack elderly people in the street at night and rob them of their belongings.

He said that they smash bottles in the street, leaving broken glass strewn around, and drive under the influence of alcohol creating an unnecessary disturbance for other residents, which is not going to be further tolerated.

"In general these are all alcohol-related incidents and this is no surprise considering the considerable amount of shebeens, which are found throughout Mondesa and the DRC.

"This is another problem which needs to be addressed not only in our own town but across Namibia," he urged.

Meanwhile the appointment by council of ten private SME contractors to get a handle on the waste management of illegal dumping of solid waste and windblown refuse in Mondesa and DRC is on track.

The ten private contractors which were appointed from 1 September, to perform

Unruly Mondesa residents to "pull up their socks"

cleaning duties in the demarcated wards at an agreed rate of N$10 000 per group per month.

The groups are being assisted with the provision of the initial equipment and protective clothing, and the basic levy for the cleaning of streets, open spaces and sidewalks be incorporated in the tariff for the removal of waste as from 2016.

The General Manager Health Services has also developed a network of partnerships amongst interested stakeholders to assist with the control of illegal dumping in this town.

Swakopmund Mayor Councillor Nehemia Salomon has urged the unruly element of Mondesa to stop their

destructive behaviour and pull up their socks. (Photo Donna Collins)

Niel Terblance

Manica Group Namibia and the Namibia Seamen and Allied Workers Unions (NASAWU) signed a substantive agreement to improve the salaries of company’s employees after almost three years of deadlock.

The agreement will substantially increase the remuneration of stevedores and other employees in the bargaining unit. Because of the deadlock, workers in the bargaining unit had not received any salary increases since 2013.

Two weeks ago, workers of both Manica and Namibia Stevedoring held a peaceful demonstration in front of the head office

building and handed over a petition with demands regarding better pay and benefits. In a statement after the demonstration, Manica reiterated that it was willing to negotiate and also wished to see the process completed, as it viewed the situation of workers not having received a salary increase for almost three years as grossly unfair and unacceptable.

“Although the company would like nothing more than to grant the employees their salary increases, it cannot, as its hands are tied by the recognition agreement with the relevant union,” it was stated in the petition letter.

At the signing, the President of NASAWU, Mr. Paulus Hango said that the process took long due to technical issues. During the initial start of the negotiations, Manica was in the

his team which he calls "collective leadership", pulled out all the stops to create a platform that targets not only the growing business community in the Erongo Region, but the participation of many SMEs who are considered to be the economic future of Namibia.

"Innovation is a key pillar of competitiveness and if Namibia wants to become a competitive economy, our people and businesses must become innovative in developing ways and products that address market needs both domestically and internationally."

Echoing the excitement of the SWAITEX success, Sven Thieme (President NCCI), said that this year's edition with its double participation clearly signifies a remarkable milestone in the growth of this important event by attracting a larger number of exhibitors and sponsors compared to the previous years.

"This is a demonstration of an increasing interest and a clear sign of confidence in this event by the business community. But the confidence that has been shown in this event has placed a huge responsibility on our shoulders as leaders of this organisation to see to it that it generates benefits and dividends for the investments made by exhibitors and other stakeholders," he said.

Thieme went on to say that these types of events must be used to build a more positive image of the country and to demonstrate to ourselves and the world that we are a nation that means business, which can only be achieved if our businesses are able to showcase

SWAITEX Expo opens with record number of exhibitors

more products which they can offer to the local and export markets.

During her official opening address, Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, said that through this event, we are bringing together businesses from Namibia and abroad to showcase their products and service, whilst promoting investment opportunities for the Erongo Region and Namibia.

She made particular note to most of the exhibitors who have branded their companies and products, saying that branding is a marketing strategy that establishes your presence in the consumer's mind whilst attracting and retaining customers.

"But we have never asked what brand Namibia has as a country, which is called 'Nation Branding", and which is practiced in many countries," explained the Prime Minister. "A Nation Brand usually portrays a typifying image of the country, its government and its people accompanied by a slogan," she continued, citing those in other countries such as Egypt, Canada and South Africa.

"I therefore urge all stake holders in Namibia to come together and come up with a National Brand - and Government through the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development can coordinate the drive towards branding of Namibia together with key stakeholders such as Team Namibia, Namibia Tourism Board, Namibia Trade Forum and the NCCI.

"What is needed is a nationally coordinated umbrella strategy to brand and position Namibia as a source of quality goods and services and as a tourism and investment destination."

In addition to the Expo offerings, SWAITEX also held a programme of conferences to SME participants and other interested business parties, with guest speakers from the business community to share overviews on their operations.

Children have also been included in the activities with an outside play area of swings and fun park entertainment in the outside courtyard. The Expo runs through to Saturday 10th October.

process of retrenching workers because of dire economic developments in the country.

“However, we are satisfied with the outcome of this process. We will not allow a situation where the workers are poorly paid and yet work in dangerous conditions. It is unacceptable that Namibians work hard yet are not paid enough so that they can support themselves and their families,” Mr. Hangu said.

He noted that negotiations with the other stevedoring firms such as Namibia Stevedoring will continue, and that other similar companies will also have to come to the table.

Mr. Kristian Woker, a director of Manica, echoed the sentiment of the union about the equal treatment of all companies in the stevedoring business.

“Some of the companies do not pay their workers a good salary in order to gain an unfair advantage in the market. International clients do not ask how much your workers get paid when they do business with you. They go for the cheapest rates. We wish to see a situation where the workers in the stevedoring industry receive a fair and market related salary. Unfortunately, there

are some companies who pay their workers very poorly, in order to offer lower rates to their clients. This cannot be tolerated. It is unfair competition at the expense of the workers.”

Mr. Woker said the negotiation process took place in an amicable spirit.

“As company representatives, we have to look out for the interest of the company and its staff. Similarly, the union has a job to do in representing the workers’ interests. Manica stevedores earn the highest salaries in the industry by far. We would also like to see the industry improve their workers’ salaries, so that there is fair competition based on the quality of service and not on undercutting rates because of cheap labour,” he said.

According to Mr Woker, employees of Namibia Stevedoring salary increments will be staggered with increases of 7%, 3.5% and 1%, backdated as from January 2013, July 2013 and January 2014 respectively. A further increase of 7.5% backdated from July 2014 will be granted to them as well. The workers’ housing allowance has also been increased. The agreement further sets out a salary increase for next year, meaning that the next negotiation process will only take place in 2017.

Mr Kristin Woker, a director of the Manica Group of Companies and the president of the Namibia Seamen and Allied Workers Unions (NASAWU), Mr. Paulus Hango sign a long overdue

salary agreement.


Statisticians on the warpath

Geingob calls for increased cooperation with Ghana

Niel Terblanche

Surveys done by members of the Namibia Statistics Agency are often met by severe resistance from residents of coastal towns in particular.

The gathering of information during door to door surveys is made difficult by a general mistrust amongst residents, because survey teams often knock on doors out of the blue. Despite being identified by distinctive yellow bibs and identification cards, team members are more often than not asked to leave the property in language which borders on rude.

In this regard, the Namibia Statistics Agency has approached the Commander of the Namibian Police in the Erongo Region to solicit his assistance in the matter. During a meeting held in the police headquarters in Walvis Bay, Commissioner Samuel Hoebeb gave the assurance that survey teams will henceforth receive the help of at least one police officer.

According to Mr. Nelson Ashipala, Communications Specialist of the Namibia Statistics Agency, the garnering of information from households has run up against a brick wall in the coastal region because people simply refuse to give information needed by the agency to assist the National Planning Commission to plan for the future of all people in Namibia.

“We are currently busy with a household income survey and, for some strange

Niel Terblanche

President Hage Geingob has called for increased economic cooperation between Ghana and Namibia for the benefit of both nations.

He said currently the level of trade between the two nations is low, hence the need to move the relations to a higher trajectory.

President Geingob made the call when he made a stopover in Accra and after attending the 70th United Nations General Assembly summit in New York Last week.

He was received by Vice President Kwesi Amissah-Arthur at the Jubilee Lounge of the Kotoka International Airport.

President Geingob also stated that Ghana is a peaceful country where he feels at home and that influenced his decision to make a stopover in Accra.

He said Ghana has a great history on the African continent in terms of Pan-Africanism and the liberation struggle.

Dr Geingob said Namibia and Ghana have had a long standing excellent political relationship and now much more is needed to strengthen the relationship in terms of trade and investment.

Vice President Amissah-Arthur called for the setting up of a permanent joint commission between the two countries to enhance trade relations.

He expressed the need for African countries to also enhance economic development and governance.

Dr Geingob made the statement after it

emerged that Namibia was elected to serve on the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Namibia, along with Ghana, will serve on the board from September 2015 until September 2017 in the only two seats available in Africa. The board, which is a subsidiary body of the General Conference, is responsible for examining and making recommendations to the General Conference of the IAEA, accounts, programme and budget as well as considering applications for membership and appointing the Director General of the IAEA. In addition, the board approves publications of IAEA safety standards and safeguard agreements.

Focusing on agriculture and food security, animal disease, crop production, soil and water management techniques, insect pest control, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, uranium mining, energy planning and skills development, the Programme seeks to match nuclear technology for sustainable development for national priorities.

These are all in conformity with the Pillars of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to which Namibia attaches significant importance, namely: Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Technology, Non-Proliferation and Disarmament.

Not only will the membership on the board put Namibia in a better position with the IAEA, the country will also have the ability to serve the interests of developing countries, in particular peaceful uses of nuclear technology and technical cooperation.

reason, residents of coastal towns simply refuse to give the necessary information by either chasing survey teams from their property or by giving untrue statements. Not only does this have an adverse effect on how plans are drawn up but people will ultimately suffer because the wrong plans were put into place.”

He said although the names of people being surveyed are taken down the information is always treated with utmost confidentiality.

“I don’t know why people mistrust our teams so much but the trend has become problematic and the assistance of the police is needed to get the correct information.”

Mr. Ashipala said police officers will accompany survey teams in the future, not only to legitimise their presence, but also to take control of a situation if a resident does not want to cooperate.

“People who refuse to assist us might end up being arrested, locked up and being fined in the magistrate’s court. Fines are hefty so residents must think twice before chasing our teams from their property.”

Asked why the trend is worse at the coast than in other parts of the country, Mr. Ashipala said he can only think that crime must have a role to play.

“That is why we will have a police officer present during the current survey. The officer will vouch for the members of the survey team. If people end up being arrested they have to know that we are operating within the mandate of the National Statistics Agency and the Act allows for hefty fines to be meted out to people who do not want to cooperate.”

He said people should be on the lookout for flyers and adverts in the newspapers to ensure that they know of a specific survey that will be done in their area. Mr. Ashipala said it is better if everybody cooperates because then better policies can be created to benefit all Namibians.


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Training and rehabilitation goes hand in handNiel Terblanche

Prisoners incarcerated the Walvis Bay Correctional Facility will henceforth be able to enhance their skills in-house, which will enable them to fit back into normal society with much greater ease.

With an existing relationship between the Harbour town’s correctional facility and institutions like the Namibia Literacy Trust, supporting prisoners with programmes and resources to enhance skills, abilities could be developed which would stand them in good stead once their sentences are completed. In this regard the Namibia Literacy Trust handed over ten laptop computers to the training officers of the correctional facility.

“Incarceration is not the end of a person’s life. It is an opportunity to reset and start afresh and with an increasing amount of resources being put towards the rehabilitation of prisoners it means that once a prison term is over people will be able to again become productive members of society,” said acting prison

superintendent Geoffrey Salufa during the ceremony where the computers were handed over.

Superintendent Salufa was of the opinion that the computers will go a long way to train both inmates and members of the prison services in basic computer skills. He said a training centre already exists within the prison walls and that inmates have already greatly benefitted from the programme.

“In the past, prisoners and members of the correction services had to go to training centres situated in Walvis Bay. Because correctional officers have to escort inmates at all times while outside the walls of the prison, it was decided that both prisoners and guards should benefit from it. The new computers just mean that the training can be done in-house and more people can benefit from it in greater numbers and at increased intervals.”

During the handover of the new equipment an inmate who has played a significant role in the establishment of the current training programme, Mr. Niccanor Kakili, said great strides

Mr. Niccanor Kakili thanked the Namibia Literacy Trust for their donation of ten laptop computers and said the equipment will be used to enable prisoners to re-join society with greater ease once their

incarceration comes to an end.

Acting Superintendent Geoffrey Salufa of the Walvis Bay Correctional Facility takes possession of ten new laptop computers from Ms. Nanguloshi Hamwaallwa donated by the Namibia Literacy Trust. The officer in charge of the training programme of inmates at the prison is correctional officer second class

Shithigona Teofilus.

have been made since he was first allowed to become part of the project.

“Through the channels available to us as inmates, we had to apply for resources with which training could be done. At first we received stationery which we could use to help our fellow inmates to study for Grade 10 and Grade 12 whilst incarcerated.”

Mr Niccanor said it was not always easy but he, along with others, was able to reach his objectives. He said that the project received two laptop computers during 2008 as well as a four-in-one printer a few years later.

“The equipment was used with

great success until now. During 2013 we applied to the authorities for more computers and today we received ten from the Namibia Literacy Trust with a lot of gratitude. The equipment will be used for the purpose for which it was given to us.”

Ms. Nanguloshi Hamwaallwa representing the Namibia Literacy Trust said during the hand-over that the organisation has had positive feedback from the training programme since its inception.

“The Namibia Literacy Trust sees the donation of resources to inmates and the correctional facility as an investment in the future. Besides rehabilitation,

people are allowed to develop skills which would enable them to compete for jobs once they re-enter society. They will even be able to start out on their own and become productive members of society.”

Superintendent Salufa said apart from the training in literacy and computer literacy, inmates also receive training in various technical skills.

The premises of the correctional facility is currently a flurry of activity with new buildings being added on to enhance the training of inmates. Various new workshops are currently being constructed where the training will take place.Heavy equipment is used to pump readymix concrete onto a new workshop

being constructed on the premises of the Walvis Bay Correctional Facility.

Workers busy with the construction of a new building being added on to the prison facilities in Walvis Bay.


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Kids become leaders at Goanikontes

NAC donation will put Namibia on the map

The Namibia United States Alumni Association (NUSAA) hosted a Leadership workshop for Learners Representative Council (LRC) members in the Erongo region.

The workshop aimed at equipping the group with leadership skills that will in turn allow them to lead other learners at their respective schools and communities.

Topics that were targeted include leadership, role models, taking risks, leading by example, good teamwork and respect amongst others. Facilitators included members of NUSAA in Erongo region, as well as social worker from the Ministry of Education.

The learners had the opportunity to discuss what was going on at their respective schools, and how to target those issues. They were divided into groups that were responsible for problem solving on different issues.

Apart from the leadership training, the group also had fun participating in debates concerning social issues that school going youth face daily. Physical fun activities included hiking and a talent show. The learners that consisted of head boys and girls exchanged contact

information to keep in touch in order to share ideas during their term of office next year. The group now also has the opportunity to contact NUSAA alumni members for any advice when they face challenges during their term.

The workshop was held at Goanikontes outside Swakopmund. Schools that were involved in the training included Petrus !Ganeb Senior Secondary, Duinesig Combined, S. I !Gobs, Martin Luther, Swakopmund Secondary, Westside High, Kollin Foundation, Martin Luther High, Da Palm Senior Secondary, Kuisebmond Secondary, Coastal High School and Faith Education Centre.

The workshop is just one of various events that NUSAA will host for people of Erongo, in order to empower the region’s residents, especially the youth. The NUSAA Erongo branch consists of individuals who had the opportunity to pursue studies and training in the United States under the United States department. Programs include the Hubert Humphrey, Fulbright, Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) and US Boot camp amongst others.

The Namibia Airports Company (NAC) handed over an amount of N$300 000 to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism towards the Colmar SITV International Tourism and Travel Fair that will take place in France during next month, at which Namibia will be the guest of honor.

Chief Executive Officer of NAC, Tamer El-Kallawi said: “The initiative undertaken by the NAC to contribute towards this notable event is a direct step towards building sustainable capacity, as it will be a foundation platform upon which the Namibian tourism industry will grow and contribute to the nation long after the event. We take cognisance of the reality that Namibia’s tourism industry depends on the support of various sectors and, to that end, we trust this donation will be a welcome aid for those who will benefit, directly or indirectly, from the summit.”

El-Kallawi went on to say that Namibia is a preferred tourist destination and as such should not continue to rely on their reputation as a peaceful and stable nation only, but should collectively and pro-actively continue in their stride for infrastructure development, technological advancement and customer service excellence, especially at the airports, which are the gateways to Namibia and should, therefore, reflect positively on the nation at large.

According to the 2014 Ministry of Environment and Tourism Tourist Statistical Report, Hosea Kutako International Airport is amongst the

top three tourist entry points and accounted for 24% of all tourists travelling to Namibia. “We are aiming to increase this figure; hence, as a key role player in both the aviation and tourism sector, we are committed to national development programs and recommended tourism growth strategies. We do not take our task lightly in ensuring the continuous development of the infrastructure entrusted to us and in creating interventions for our people to find employment and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of our country,” added El-Kallawi.

He went on to say that NAC was

proud of the recent inauguration of the new passenger terminal at Ondangwa Airport and other highlights included the construction of the terminal building at Walvis Bay airport and the rehabilitation and upgrade of the runway at Ondangwa airport. “With that in mind, I wish to emphasise that key to our corporate strategy is the improvement of our major airports so that they are better able to handle the ever-increasing local and international passenger traffic, meet increasingly stringent international airport security benchmarks and provide both passengers and other key stakeholders with world-class experience,” he concluded.

On 30 September 2015 the Namibia Airports Company (NAC) handed over an amount of N$300 000 to the Ministry of Environment towards the Colmar SITV International Tourism and Travel Fair 2015 in France

in November 2015 at which Namibia will be the guest of honor.


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Certified Junior BookkeeperCertified Senior BookkeeperCertified Technical Financial AccountantCertified Financial AccountantCertified Junior Office AdministratorCertified Senior Office AdministratorCertified Office ManagerCertified Small Business Financial ManagerFinancial Management for Entrepreneurs

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Short Courses: Full Computer Literacy Course, ICDL

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To Register Visit any of our Branches, Call or SMS your Name & Postal Address to

0812785053 for us to sent you forms and info

Windhoek Branch No. 4 Sauerstrasse Windhoek

North Erastus Shapumba Towers,

P.O. Box 40792 Ausspannplatz Windhoek Namibia

Tel - 061 232652Fax- 061 234736

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OrwetoweniTel - 067 304652

(Hostel Accommodation available)

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(Behind Shoprite Town)Tel - 064 220023

Cell - 0816716418

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Tel- 065 240468 Cell- 0816506453

MONITRONICSUCCESS COLLEGE

NAMIBIA

N O T I C E

January 2013 Intake

All the Grade 10 & Grade 12 holders.Mature Age Entry. Those who have & not applied, waiting for results report

for registration (no points required at application) Closing date 08

February 2013

ATTEND Information Sessions/career

guidance if you have any questions before you decide to register.

DATES: Windhoek: 01, 04 & 07 Feb 2013

@13h00 -13h45Otjiwarongo: 02 Feb 2013 @13h00

Walvisbay: 01-05 Feb @13h00 Ondangwa: 01- 06 Feb 2013 @13h00 Call the branch to book your place

VacancieSOnly Namibians or

permanent residence need to apply

1 x cO-ORDinaTOR

5 x TUTORS

2 x RecePTiOniST/ cOURSe SaLeS/

aDViSORS

Duty Station: Walvis BayA Master’s Degree in Business and at least a qualification in Education and training, 5 years teaching and supervision experience.

Duty Station: Walvisbay Part-time (15h30-19h30) or Weekends; Full-TimeProgrammes: Office Administration, Secretarial & Administration, HR, Business Management, IT, Accounting & Finance, Electrical Installation, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunication Systems.Minimum Requiments: First Relevant Degree or a Master’s Degree or with teaching qualification is a distinct advantage with at least 2 years work and teaching Experience.

Duty Station: Walvisbay Minimum Requiments: At least a Diploma in similar or sales equivalent and 3 years work experience.

Apply to the Rector, Monitronic Success College, Email CV and supporting certified documents to: [email protected] [email protected], No Faxes

A whale of a time at the WalvisfeesHundreds of visitors packed the rafters to watch

the strong men and women of the coast do all kinds of almost impossible feats of strength. Along with this competition, a dog show also drew a crowd that was unsurpassed until this year. The biggest attraction besides the food tent, however, was the annual Lucky Star Marathon that ended on the fairgrounds. In the food tent, people were packed up to six deep to get to the delicious fare that formed the backbone of the festival. A bouncy castle park, a huge slide and warm weather combined to ensure that youngsters had a whale of a time.

Thursday, 08 October 20158

71

94

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AWARENESSCANCER

DRIVE

ONLY AT

HICKORY CREEK SPUR Swakopmund.

DESERT CREEK SPUR Walvis Bay.

www.spurcorp.nl

Come and support our

Cancer Awareness Drive and have your hair sprayed in bright, fun colours!

Valid 1 - 31 October 2015 for kids 12 years and younger. Terms and Conditions apply.

Buy a Spur Kids’ Meal and we will donate N$5 to The Cancer Association of Namibia.

For more information on cancer prevention and treatment, visit www.can.org.na

LANGER HEINRICH URANIUM (PTY) LTDA Member of the Paladin Energy Ltd Group of Companies

(An Equal Opportunity Employer)

Invites suitably qualified and committed self driven candidates to apply for the following position at the mining operation in SWAKOPMUND, NAMIBIA.

METALLURGICAL SUPERINTENDENT, PRODUCTION

CLOSING DATE: 23 OCTOBER 2015

To apply for this position, please register on Sage Skills Map and apply online @

https://langer.jb.skillsmapafrica.com

Position specifications can be viewed at above link.For any assistance, please download the job seeker’s manual.

Please note that no hand delivered or emailed applications will be accepted.

News

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOBTo provide the Company with a professional accounting service in the compilation and preparation of financial statements, to be responsible for general financial accounting duties required by Swakop Uranium’s (SU) policies and procedures, while ensuring full compliance with all relevant statutory obligations.

Key Performance Areas:• Prepares and assists with financial accounting reports and analysis for review and sign-off on a

weekly,monthlyandannualbasisincluding(AnnualFinancialStatements,GroupPacks).• ExecutesandmaintainsIFRSstandards,statementsandpolicy.• Adherestoandimplementstheinternalcontrolandgovernanceframework.• Implementsmeasurestopreventfraudandmitigatefinancialrisk.• Dealswith stakeholders inmanagement accounting, procurement and inventorymanagement to

ensureaccountingisstreamlinedbytheseupstreamprocesses.• PreparesmonthlytaxcalculationsandVAT,ImportVAT,WHTSandincometaxreturnsforreviewand

sign-offwithinstatutorydeadlinesforallsubsidiaries.• PreparesandsubmitslocalVATandImportVATreturnsaccuratelyandtimeously.• PostingoftheBankstatementsforsubsidiaries.• Loadallnewassetsandscrapassetsonthesystem.• AssisttodraftstatutoryaccountswithfullybackedupauditforannualGroupauditprocess.

Requirements and experience:• BComDegreeinFinancialAccountingorNQAQualification:Level7• 5yearsfinancialaccountingexperiencewithTopAccountancyfirm• SuccessfulcompletionofArticlesapre-requisite• QualificationofCharteredAccountants(CA)willbeanaddedadvantage• Supervisoryexperienceapre-requisite• PreviousexposuretoIFRSandGroupreportinganadvantage.• VAT,WHT,ImportVATandIncometaxexperience.• Experienceintheminingindustryadistinctadvantage.• CodeBDrivers’License

One of the world’s foremost emerging uranium companies, Swakop Uranium, is focused on developing and operating the world's third-largest known primary uranium deposit near the town of Swakopmund in Namibia. We need energetic, self-motivated and confident people to apply for our roles and we regard you as our “Employee of Choice”.

VACANCY

FiNANCiAl ACCouNtANtLocation:Swakopmund

ReportstotheFinancialController

Throughitscommitmenttoitspeople,thecompanyoffersacompetitiveremunerationpackageandtheopportunitytoworkalongsidesomeofthemostexperiencedanddedicatedpeopleintheindustry.

InterestedpersonsshouldsubmittheirCVandrelevantsupportingdocumentstorecruitment@cgnpc.com.cnorviafaxonnumber0644109001,orhanddeliveredtoHusabTower,c/oLeutwwinandNathanielMaxuilili

streetSwakopmundby23OCTOBER2015.

EnquiriescanbedirectedtotheRecruitmentTeamat0644109000.

PreviouslydisadvantagedNamibiansmeetingtheabovecriteriaareencouragedtoapply.

Clearlyindicatethepositionyouareapplyingforaswellasyournameandsurnameinthesubjectlineofyourapplicationemail.Applicationsreceivedthatdonotmeetthiscriteriawillnotbeconsidered.

9 Thursday, 08 October 2015

Ministry addressing needs of small business

Bold declaration for renewables in Africa

Niel Terblanche

Since the programme of developing Small and Medium Enterprises was launched in Namibia to enhance the macro economic development of the country, the definitions of such business has changed because of a very dynamic and diverse population.

In this regard the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development has held a contact session with current and prospective business people in this category in Walvis Bay. During the session, the recent change of the Ministry’s portfolio and current policy development was discussed with residents.

Ms. Helvi Ndelemeke Petrus represented the Ministry and said that, since its inception in 1997, the dynamics of the Namibian National Economy has changed a lot and that SME businesses need to be redefined in terms of the act governing such enterprises. She also said the Ministry is currently reviewing these definitions and policies, and that it has come to the point where this business sector needs to be renamed.

“Instead of referring to the sector as the SME, current economic dynamics calls for micro enterprises to be included and recognised as such. The Act and economic policy of Namibia has never catered for these enterprises and they were excluded from receiving the same help as the SME sector. Once redefined, the sector will be known as the MSME, and structures will be put into place to give this part of the sector the help and support it needs to ensure that these enterprises will be able to start up and contribute to creating jobs and revenue.”

Ms. Petrus said that Government and the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development is fully committed to this paradigm shift. Along with this, the Ministry will do its utmost to promote investment in the micro sector to ensure business people are exposed to every possible opportunity.

During the contact session, SME business people and prospective entrepreneurs were schooled in the correct procedures to follow on how to solicit the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development’s assistance.

By 2030, half of all electricity in eastern and southern Africa could come from clean, indigenous, cost-effective renewable energy, allowing for a substantial reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

That is according to the declaration from the SA International Renewable Energy Conference, which was signed in Cape Town recently.

A key message contained in the declaration is that the renewable energy sector needs to focus on upskilling African communities and ensuring they have a bigger slice of the economic pie.

“While growing African energy economies, we need to ensure localisation of supply chains, not only for the supply of equipment and plant, but also the maintenance and operation of facilities,” it says.

“This will create jobs and grow skills. It will reduce costs and will substantially increase social acceptance.”

It states that it is imperative to develop a skills base to facilitate technology transfer and to ensure technologies are needs-driven and appropriate for local conditions.

The conference declaration will say that to make universal access a reality by 2030, 1.3 billion people, out of which 621 million reside in the sub-Saharan region, should be provided access to electricity.

“Rural and urban demands can best be met with a diverse technology mix that takes full advantage of sub-Saharan Africa’s exceptional and sustainable solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower resources,” it states.

“Together with energy efficiency, (renewable energy) enables sustainable energy access especially for the poor, it creates economic and job opportunities, it improves air quality and moderates climate change and it enhances energy security, human health and sustainable development.”

The sixth renewable energy conference, which is hosted by the SA Department of Energy, is taking place for the first time in Africa this week with 3 600 delegates from 82 countries participating.

Source: www.news24.com

News


Danny Beukes shares his success with another lucky clientMunic Stuart is September’s lucky winner of N$1 000 through Danny Beukes’ “Ten Years of Success” competition currently underway in which Danny is sharing his success by giving away N$1000 to a lucky client every month for ten months. The competition is open to all Danny’s clients, and dates back to 2005, just drop Danny a mail with “10 years of success” as subject line and further information will be sent to you.Danny’s tip of the month: PPS insurance: If you are a graduate professional with at least a 4 year degree, you probably qualify for benefits with PPS, which covers members for their ability to carry out a professional duty. In addition to this, you enjoy better insurance rates for life and disability cover, as well as sharing in the profits of PPS, since PPS belongs to its members/policy holders.

PPS is the only insurance company that specialises in the professional market, do not be fooled by seemingly “better” rates and coverage. In my own experience, I have now collected more in profits than I have spent on the premiums, and that after 14 years as a PPS member.To discuss this, do not hesitate to contact the professionals… You can reach us by calling 064-215 311 or email to [email protected]

Lucky Star Marathon now also Cycle Tour

Niel Terblanche

The well-known Lucky Star Marathon, Namibia’s premier coastal running event, has undergone a transformation.

This year’s marathon also included multi-disciplined cycling events, amongst others Namibia’s first ever fat bike race. It took place for the first time under the new Lucky Star Marathon & Cycle Tour name last weekend, and included eight different events with 439 runners, 146 cyclists and 95 learners in school relay teams taking part.

Apart from being a qualifier for the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons, the appeal of the event has always been the unique route which follows the scenic route along the main road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

Runners also had the option of taking part in the half-marathon or 10 kilometres fun run. Special focus is placed on involving learners from across the country in the 10 kilometre school relay event.

Athletes from participating schools are sponsored by Etosha Fishing, Namibian

home of the Lucky Star brand, which also provided transport, accommodation and food for the learners. For many children. this opportunity meant seeing the Atlantic Ocean for the first time in their lives.

The addition of a multi-disciplined cycling event offered cyclists the opportunity to pit their skills against one another. Apart from the 105 kilometre road race, 21 kilometre mountain bike race and a 5 kilometre kiddie’s fun ride, cyclists were especially excited about the first ever 21 kilometre fat bike race, unique in that it followed a route that traversed sections of the Namib Desert with exhilarating dune rides.

To add to the family appeal of the event, the organisers have also changed the running routes. All events finished at the Jan Wilken Stadium in Walvis Bay, coinciding with the Walvisfees. This ensured fun for athletes and supporters alike.

A full listing of the marathon results, photos and video clips of the event, are available on the Lucky Star Marathon section of the Etosha Fishing website: www.etoshafish.com.na

11 Thursday, 08 October 2015 NewsNews


The Mandela Washington Fellowship Program is now open for applications. The program is planning to host a series of workshops for prospective young leaders of the Erongo region throughout the month of October, in order to assist them with their application process. Workshops will be held in Walvis Bay (10 October), Swakopmund (17 October), Arandis (31 October), Karibib and Usakos (17 October). It will consist of information on how to write a resume, Elevator pitch, and interview skills amongst others.

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, begun in 2014. It is the flagship program of President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) that empowers young people

through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking. In 2016, the Fellowship will provide 1,000 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to enhance their skills at a U.S. higher education institution with support for professional development after they return home.

The Fellows, who are between the ages of 25 and 35, have established records of accomplishment in promoting innovation and positive change in their organisations, institutions, communities, and countries. In 2015, Fellows represented all 49 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Fifty percent of Fellows were women; and for 76 percent of Fellows, it was their first experience spending substantial time in the United States. Each Mandela

Mandela Washington Fellowship Program to conduct workshop for Erongo Youth Washington Fellow takes part in a six-week academic

and leadership Institute at a U.S. university or college in one of three tracks: Business and Entrepreneurship, Civic Leadership, or Public Management.

In 2016, there will be a pilot Institute on Energy. Fellows will also visit Washington, D.C., for a Presidential Summit featuring a town hall with President Obama. During the three-day event, Fellows will take part in networking and panel discussions with U.S. leaders from the public, private, and non-profit sectors. 100 Selected Fellows will remain in the United States to participate in a six-week professional development experience with U.S. non-governmental organisations, private companies, and governmental agencies that relate to their professional interests and goals.

Upon returning to their home countries, Fellows will continue to build the skills they have developed during their time in the United States through support from U.S. embassies, four Regional Leadership Centres,

the YALI Network, and customised programming from USAID and affiliated partners. Through these experiences, Mandela Washington Fellows have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, mentoring, networking and training, and seed funding to support their ideas, businesses, and organisations. The Erongo region is proud to have had two hardworking leaders, Piet Carstens and Hafeni who already had the opportunity to be chosen for the program. They came back with valuable skills that are now benefitting their country and the Erongo region.

Young people between the ages of 25-35 are thus invited to visit the American corner at the Walvis Bay Library to book their places for the first workshop that will be conducted on 10 October at the Kuisebmond library, while those in other towns can call the American corner or representatives at the following numbers before 7 October: Taati Niilenge 0812491161, Cheryl Fortuin 0813883902 and Piet Carstens 0814359286.

YALI Allumni

New partnerships needed for prosperityNiel Terblanche

Business entities in Namibia are currently actively seeking investment opportunities and partnerships with South African businesses.

The Commercial Counsellor at the High Commission of the Republic of Namibia’s Commercial Office in South Africa, Mrs. Bonaventura Hinda, noted that South Africa and Namibia have strong trade ties, with South African exports to Namibia topping R51.5 billion last year, and its imports from Namibia exceeding R8.4 billion in the same time frame.

However, with a relatively small market of 2.1 million people, Namibia’s biggest appeal for investors lies not in trade, but in its potential to serve as a gateway to Africa and the rest of the world for manufacturers, said Hinda.

Manufacturers setting up facilities in Namibia benefit from investment incentives; a modern communications infrastructure and a good roads network. Importantly, Namibia offers access to two modern ports at Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, and to four key transport corridors across the SADC region.

Foreign manufacturers are already benefiting from Namibia’s access to SADC countries, with some establishing facilities close to the border with Angola for example, so significantly improving transport time and reducing costs associated with the manufacture of goods for the Angolan market. In addition to Windhoek and Walvis Bay, Rundu in the Kavango-East Region, the north-eastern parts of the country and the coastal areas are developing fast, says Hinda.

Namibia is working to step up power availability, with a particular focus on renewable energies and the potential for more power efficient technologies, to

support industrialisation.Businesses looking to expand

or launch in Namibia can quickly and easily register their new entities, with the government availing industrial land and buildings at reasonable rates. With the country’s business culture, currency and financial institutions already familiar to South Africans, this makes launching a business in Namibia relatively easy.

“The biggest drawcards for investors are the fact that Namibia is a springboard into the rest of Africa, as well as its political and economic stability,” said Hinda.

She noted that all government transitions have been peaceful since independence. In addition, the country’s economic growth rate stands at 5% this year, with an expected 5.5% next year, it has a stable workforce, and its crime rate is minimal.

While manufacturing is a key investment opportunity, there are also significant investment opportunities around the supply of manufacturing equipment and support infrastructure such as power, transport and logistics, Hinda says. “There are also opportunities for companies offering artisan training and general skills training,” she adds.

With the Namibian government currently expanding its own infrastructure and addressing housing shortfalls, South African developers can also seek partnerships with Namibian construction firms to bid for large state building projects. And in the healthcare sector, the government is open to public private partnerships in the supply of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals and in healthcare delivery, presenting yet more opportunities for South African companies partnering with Namibian firms. Agriculture and agro-goods processing are a significant growth area in Namibia, with numerous opportunities for investment and business

development, adds Hinda.“For example, Namibia has

experienced drought conditions since 2013, therefore there are opportunities for investors able to help improve food production along our four perennial rivers.”

Aiming to highlight the broad range of investment and business opportunities in Namibia, a series of Namibia – South Africa Business Seminars have been hosted in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg this week.

The seminars, led by the Namibian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) were supported by the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development and the Department of Trade and Industry, and included representatives from companies, national and local government and municipalities.

The Namibia – South Africa Business Seminars were facilitated by the High Commission of the Republic of Namibia, Commercial Office, and co-hosted by WESGRO and the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry; TIKZN, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce & Industry, with participation by the Department of Trade and Industry, SACCI, Ekurhuleni Business Initiative and the Black Business Council.

The seminars focused on opportunities in key sectors including manufacturing, logistics, mining and minerals beneficiation, agriculture and agro-processing, construction and leather goods, and aimed to foster stronger trade relationships between stakeholders in these sectors. The NCCI mission will seek to engage South African companies and stakeholders to unlock joint venture possibilities for industrialisation and business, exchange investment and trade opportunities and to explore investment financing opportunities.

Thursday, 08 October 201514 worldwide

WorldwideMedical miracle as doctors reattach toddler's decapitated head

This child has made a miracle recovery after his head was internally decapitated in a car crash.

Young Jaxon Taylor, aged one, could have died after the smash. The 16-month-old toddler was with his mum and nine-year-old sister Shayne when they collided head on with another vehicle at 110km/h.

The child was airlifted from the site of the crash to a hospital in Brisbane. The force from the collision was so intense that Jaxon's head pulled apart from his neck in an internal decapitation, according to spinal surgeon Dr Geoff Askin.

In a six-hour surgery Dr Askin and his team attached a halo device to Jackson’s skull, holding him completely still while reattaching his vertebrae using a tiny piece of wire. Then medical staff took a piece of Jaxon’s rib to graft the two vertebrae together.

"A lot of children would not survive that injury in the first place, and if they did and they were resuscitated then they may never move or breathe again." said Dr Askin. Dr Askin said that Jaxon’s condition was the worst injury of its kind that he had seen.

Jaxon now wears what his family calls a "halo" to keep his body stable, which will be removed in eight weeks. After that, he will be able to live a normal and healthy life.

Nine-year-old Shayne underwent surgery to stop internal bleeding. She will be in a body frame for the next eight weeks while her body heals.

Jaxon’s grateful mother, Rylea, 30, said: “It was a miracle". Dad Andrew Taylor told 7NewsMelbourne: "They have taken two broken kids and put them back together. We are very, very thankful."

The family was travelling along the Newell Highway in New South Wales to start a new life in Maronbah, Queensland. Their vehicle collided with a Ford Falcon driven by an 18-year-old man. Rylea was saved by an air bag but said: "The second I pulled Jaxon out I knew his neck was broken."

Source: www.mirror.co.uk

China is genetically engineering mini pigs

We would all like our baby pets to stay perpetually tiny, but scientists in China are taking that desire to a whole new level.

BGI, a genomics institute located in Shenzhen, announced in late September that it is genetically engineering miniature pigs to sell as pets for N$22,000 each.

The institute creates the micro-pigs by using a gene-editing technique that alters the genomes of a Bama - an already small breed of pig - to make it even smaller. BGI uses TALENs (an enzyme) to disable one of two copies of the growth hormone receptor gene in a Bama's fetal cells.

BGI then clones pigs from the fetus, which produces stunted male Bama clones that are, in turn, naturally bred with normal females. Half of the resulting offspring are micro-pigs.

Unlike normal Bamas - which can weigh up to 45kg - these lab-created pigs only grow up to 14kg when mature, around the same weight as a medium-sized dog.

The micro-pigs were originally used as lab animals that acted as models for human disease, according to Nature magazine. Pigs, specifically smaller breeds of pig, are commonly used as model organisms in biomedical research because they "closely [resemble] man in anatomy, physiology and genetics,"

according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

According to Yong Li, technical director of BGI's animal-science platform, BGI has not observed any health problems associated with cloning in any of the gene-edited pigs they have produced.

In the future, the institute promises to offer miniature pigs in a variety of coat colours and patterns, which will be achieved through further gene editing.

While BGI feels confident about bringing genetically modified micro-pigs to the public, other experts remain sceptical.

"Obviously, this has to be regulated," Yusuff Abdu, a researcher at New York University's School of Medicine, told Inverse.com. "You cannot let lab-engineered animals out into the public. There is a high chance they could get into the wild and offset an ecosystem if they happen to have an advantageous trait. Lab rats and mice are kept out of pet stores for this reason."

For its part, BGI says that the profits made from selling the micro-pigs as pets will be invested in research that explores how gene editing in pets and in medical research can be regulated.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Scientists find worms can safely eat the plastic in our garbage

Garbage is a big problem. Even with so many of us doing our bit to help out with recycling, the amount of unrecyclable and discarded plastics in the US alone comes close to 30 million tonnes annually, thanks to things like disposable coffee cups (2.5 billion of which are

thrown away by Americans every year). We are looking at you, Starbucks.

Now, for the first time, researchers have found detailed evidence that bacteria in an animal’s gut can safely biodegrade plastic and potentially help reduce the environmental

impact of plastic in landfill and elsewhere. The animal in question? The humble mealworm – which turns out to be not so humble after all.

Researchers led by Stanford University in US and Beihang University in China found that the mealworm – the larval form of the darkling beetle – can safely subsist on a diet of Styrofoam and other kinds of polystyrene, with bacteria in the worm’s gut biodegrading the plastic as part of its digestive process. The findings are significant because it was previously thought that these substances were non-biodegradable – meaning they ended up in landfill or worse, our oceans, where they would accumulate for decades.

“Our findings have opened a new door to solve the global plastic pollution problem,” co-author Wei-Min Wu, a senior research engineer in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford, said in a statement.

In the study, 100 mealworms ate between 34 and 39 milligrams of Styrofoam each day, converting about half into carbon dioxide and the other excreting the bulk of the rest as biodegraded droppings. They remained healthy on the plastic diet, and their droppings appeared to be safe for use as soil for crops.

Compared to the amount of plastic people

go through every year, the mealworms’ capacity to process our waste product might not sound like much, but further research could help us engineer more powerful enzymes for plastic degradation, including processing other kinds of currently impervious plastics, including polypropylene, micro beads, and bio plastics.

The researchers are also looking to find whether a marine equivalent of the mealworm may

exist, as hundreds of thousands of tonnes of plastic in the world’s oceans are an on-going environmental concern.

“There is a possibility of really important research coming out of bizarre places,” said Craig Criddle, a professor of civil and environmental engineering who supervised the research. “Sometimes, science surprises us. This is a shock.”

Source: www. sciencealert.com

15 Thursday, 08 October 2015

PO Box 43, Walvis Bay Corner of Sam Nujoma Avenue & 10th Road Tel: 064 207248 | Fax: 064 207253 Email: [email protected]

Hungry? Need lunch in a hurry?

WALVIS BAY

CEN RE CONVENIENCE

Refuel with the convenience of our daily meals and our fresh deli counter.

motoring

Motoring

ExecutiveCareExecutiveCare

Contact 081 304 0232Email: [email protected] next to Mega Stationers in Walvis Bay

Every 5th Every 5th Wash & Vacuum is FREE

Wash & Vacuum is FREE

CAR WASH

South Africa’s first locally designed and manafacturered motor cycle

Developed by South African whiz kid Mike Puzey, the BRM 300 is the first ever South-African manufactured motorcycle. Powered by the Italian TM engine, this 2-stroke race machine has made some waves in the market place, in events against world-famous race-winning brands, holding its own and even out-performing many competitors in its class in tests. It proved itself at the Roof of Africa 2012, and surprised the media when it was tested; the PUZEY BRM 300 has to be the best value-for-money 2-stroke 300 enduro motorcycle in the country.

“The goal was to design and build an affordable South African production dirt bike, using all the best trick components available to us, we were really pleased with the outcome as were the media testers,” said Mike Puzey

“The BRM 300 came out tops in all the tests, I think surprising them in the way it performed, the stock features include a Gripper seat, billet wheels, Pro Taper bars, Brembo Hydraulic clutch. Big radiators – with a fan fitted standard, braided brake lines – twin pot stoppers up front and a single pot out back, Spider grips, Cycra Brush guards. The plastics are identical to those on the top factory models. The brake calipers and wheels are top quality. The disc protectors are unique and really work better than most of the competitors. Our stock tank holds 9.5 litres of fuel – good for a range of around 80km, we also have a secondary bolt-on aluminium tank available that

holds an extra 3 litres, that mounts neatly just above the engine,” said Puzey.

Going this route with the BRM 300 allowed Puzey to have all the parts for this motorcycle which are readily available. Another unique feature and a first in the industry is Puzey’s patented cam-adjust system, which raises and lowers the seat height according to what one needs.

So what is the bike like, we took an extract from Glenn Foley’s Dirt & Trail test that’s says it all. “From a stylish and build point of view – this bike is reminiscent of the latest Maico’s. The guys from Puzey have used ideas and components from all over – and we recognised more than 1 or 2 mainline brand bits on the bike.”

The bike feels a tad portly compared to other 300cc 2-strokes – but we do like the fact that the seat height can be adjusted – nice for people with shorter legs. The kick started is perfect with a good stroke and she fired up easily after a few kicks. The stock HGS pipe emits a wicked howl when you hit the throttle. The clutch is lekker soft, snick her into gear and you take off…

Take off is the right word, this bike is a rocket, but thanks to some clever mechanical and electronic trickery, Puzey has managed to really tame the TM engine down – so it is incredibly user friendly. If you need torque for climbing, the engine delivers oodles of just that. If you want a fast ride, open the throttle, flick through the gears and you will soon

be doing Mach 4 or so. You also have a mapping switch – map 1 for the fast stuff – map 2 for more torque – and you can feel the difference. The gearbox is slick, handling is predictable. The suspension is really good – turns out that the forks are Showa cartridges, with specialised inners designed by Mike Puzey himself. We did notice that it has been set up by ace suspension tuner Hilton Hayward; they felt really good – quite soft, which is great for the more tricky stuff – and it never got out of shape while we rode it. The rear mono shock is fully adjustable with a remote reservoir – so you can have it all set up to your specific needs.

The conclusion, we rode everywhere from some tricky rocky sections, through rivers, over mountains and – of course on some really fast winding sections. We will say it again – take any preconceived notion that you have about alternative bikes and chuck them out of the window. This one feels as good as anything out there. It did not overheat, it never battled to start – it was an absolute pleasure to

ride. – Glenn FoleyThe Puzey workshop will build this

motorcycle on special requests and confirmed orders placed.

“We still have a few in stock and some orders for the BRM 300 Motard machine, it will certainly make a very quick Motard unit with its lively 2 stroke power plant.” “All the BRM’s are fully race prepped, the current stock will be on sale at the old price R 58 999 (incl. VAT).” “All units built on special orders will include exhaust and radiator guards together with the standard race-spec disc sprockets, rear brake guards, hand guards and radiator fan. Plus a long-range fuel tank as optional extra, we will be announcing the new BRM 300 pricing soon,” said Mike Puzey.

For more information on the BRM 300 call Puzey Bikers Warehouse, Mike or his sales team on 011 795 4122 or visit their web site for more info www.puzey.co.za and www.bikerswarehouse.co.za

Source: www.zabikers.co.za

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