insert_link Business / Economics U.S Retail sales slump in January Retail sales declined by a more than expected 0.8 percent in the U.S. last month. That marks the biggest dip since last March and has fueled fears that consumer spending may be on the wane. Williams Denselow reports from New York. todayFebruary 16, 2024 7
insert_link South Africa South African Government Extends Special Relief of Distress Grant to March 2025, Cosatu Welcomes Move The Congress of South African Trade Unions applauds the government's decision to extend the Special Relief of Distress grant for an additional year until March 2025. This extension brings relief to 8 million unemployed individuals dependent on this crucial poverty alleviation support. Matthew Parks, Cosatu's acting spokesperson, acknowledges the grant's limitations but highlights its invaluable role in providing relief to millions without income, signaling a potential step towards the anticipated […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 11
insert_link Namibia Diplomatic Corps Briefed on Burial Arrangements for Late Namibian President Hage Geingob Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has provided members of the diplomatic corps with details on the burial arrangements for the late President Hage Geingob. Geingob's memorial service is scheduled for February 24 at 14:00 at Independence Stadium in Windhoek, followed by the burial service on February 25, 2024, at 10:00 at Heroes' Acre. Diplomats intending to attend the funeral are requested to confirm their delegations by February 20 to facilitate government […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 8
insert_link South Africa EFF Threatens March to American Embassy in South Africa Over Ongoing Palestinian Bombardment Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, issues a threat to march to the American embassy if the bombardment and alleged genocide of Palestinians continue. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, Malema condemns recent attacks on Palestine, accusing Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of defying the International Court of Justice's order to cease hostilities. The EFF leader declares the party's intention to hold the American embassy accountable […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 5
insert_link South Africa SA President Ramaphosa Highlights Progress in Tackling South Africa’s Long-Standing Electricity Crisis South African President Cyril Ramaphosa asserts that the government is achieving tangible advancements in resolving the 15-year-long electricity crisis. He points to enhanced maintenance at Eskom plants, resulting in damaged units returning to service ahead of schedule. In response to the state of the nation address in Parliament, Ramaphosa notes a significant uptick in rooftop solar installations by businesses and households, supported by government incentives. todayFebruary 16, 2024 5
insert_link 3 Business / Economics Oxford Economics Africa Economist Explores Key Drivers Influencing Namibia’s Inflation Economist Theo Klein from Oxford Economics Africa in South Africa examines the impact of specific macro and microeconomic factors on Namibia's inflation rate. Delving into the intricacies of these influences, Klein sheds light on the dynamics shaping the country's inflation landscape. todayFebruary 16, 2024 27 3
insert_link World NYC sues social media companies over ‘youth mental health crisis The city of New York is suing several major social media platforms, accusing them of fueling a 'youth mental health crisis'. Mayor Eric Adams says the lawsuit will hold TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and YouTube accountable for 'endangering the mental health of children'. The social media companies involved deny the allegations and say they are working hard to keep young people safe. Sally Patterson reports. todayFebruary 16, 2024 11
insert_link Namibia Institute for Public Policy Research Warns Low Election Turnout Looms Unless Namibian Youth Engage in Politics The Institute for Public Policy Research cautions that Namibia may experience low election turnout unless young people are encouraged to take an interest in politics. IPPR's executive director, Graham Hopwood, highlighted the potential strong influence of young voters on this year's election outcome but notes a current perception that many do not view voting as significant. Affirmative Repositioning's Job Amupanda wieghs in. todayFebruary 16, 2024 45
insert_link Namibia African Union Declares 2024 as the Year of Education with Focus on Foundational Learning The African Union designates 2024 as the Year of Education, centered around the theme "Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century." Emphasizing foundational learning as a top priority, the AU addresses the critical issue of nine out of ten African children struggling to read for meaning by the age of 10, deeming it an unprecedented learning crisis. Dr. Aune Victor, UNICEF Namibia Education Specialist, is actively participating in the […] todayFebruary 16, 2024 22