Leonard Witbeen, Author at Future Media News

Deputy Minister Ithete Pushes for Inclusive Mining Laws

Deputy Prime Minister Natangwe Ithete has announced upcoming nationwide consultations on the revised Minerals Bill. While speaking at the Mining Expo, he said the goal is to ensure more inclusive and modern mining legislation. He also warned that government is cracking down on inactive mineral rights holders, stressing that licences must be used productively and not hoarded. The consultations will prioritise voices from regions with active mining.

6 August, 2025

Namibia

Victory for Residents as RedForce Contracts End, Gariseb Calls for Stronger Internal Debt Recovery

The decision by the current Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa to end local authorities’ contracts with RedForce is being hailed as a major victory after three years of persistent advocacy, says Shaun Gariseb of the Rate Payers and Residents Committee. He urges strengthening internal debt recovery departments to ease pressure on residents.

6 August, 2025

Namibia

Mulunga Accused of Concealing N$53m Fuel Deal.

Anti-Corruption Commission lead investigator Oberty Inambao has alleged that former Namcor managing director Immanuel Mulunga hid the full details of a N$53 million fuel asset transaction with Enercon from the company’s board, even though he was fully aware of the deal, according to NewsOnOne’s Envaalde Matheus. The transaction is linked to a larger N$480 million corruption scandal involving several entities.

6 August, 2025

Namibia

Namdia Diamond Theft Trial Faces Final Postponement, Says Magistrate

Windhoek Magistrate Olga Muharukua has ordered that no further postponements be granted in the high-profile Namdia diamond theft case involving Joel Angula and Sam Shololo as reported by our NewsOnOne’s Josia Shigwedha. They’re accused of stealing diamonds worth N$315 million.

5 August, 2025

Business / Economics

2025 Mining Expo Opens with Record Participation

The 2025 Mining Expo and Conference launches today, marking its largest edition yet. Exhibitors have increased from 168 to 196, and booth spaces have risen from 268 to 313. Visitor registrations hit a record 7,831, a 31.7% increase from 2023. The event focuses on promoting skills development and boosting interest in the mining sector, says Lauren Graham, Chief Economist at the Chamber of Mines.

5 August, 2025

Business / Economics

Private Sector Credit Growth Accelerates to Pre-Pandemic Levels .

Private sector credit grew by 5.7% year-on-year in June, up from 4.1% in May—the fastest pace since early 2020. Corporate credit surged 10.6%, fueled by strong activity in mining, energy, retail, and manufacturing sectors. Overdrafts jumped 17.4%, driven largely by real estate development and rising consumer demand, explained Simonis Storm economist Almandro Jansen.

5 August, 2025

Interview Transcripts

Interview: IPC’s Five-Year Journey: From Startup Party to Political Force

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) believes it has transformed the political landscape in Namibia, growing rapidly from a newly formed movement into the country’s official opposition. Spokesperson Immanuel Nashinge says this rise reflects the trust and expectations of Namibians from all walks of life. In an interview with Leonard Witbeen, Nashinge described IPC as a “people’s political home,” saying its grassroots foundation and commitment to participatory democracy have shaped […]

4 August, 2025

Interview Transcripts

Interview: Governor Iipinge Hails ‘Operation Lucia’ as Crime-Fighting Effort Gains Ground in Oshana

Oshana Regional Governor Hofni Iipinge has welcomed the launch of Operation Lucia, a community-focused anti-crime campaign initiated by the region’s security cluster under Police Commissioner Naftal Sakaria, and officially inaugurated by the Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Hon. Lucia Iipumbu. The operation kicked off recently with a parade and official opening ceremony held at the Oshana Police Headquarters in Oshakati. From there, the security team proceeded through […]

4 August, 2025

Business / Economics

Bank Of Namibia Defends N$1 Coin Design Amid ‘Outere Dollar’ Talk

The Bank of Namibia has addressed public concerns over the new N$1 coin, explaining that its design—showing two hands exchanging coins—was created to honour the country’s retail sector and highlight values like dignified trade, resilience, and economic inclusion. The Bank’s spokesperson, Kazembire Zemburuka, clarified that the nickname “Outere Dollar” (Khoekhoegowab for “give me”) was never part of the official intent.

4 August, 2025