Leonard Witbeen, Author at Future Media News

Regional tensions affecting Yemen’s peace process

The United Nations says rising regional tensions linked to the war in Gaza is slowing down peace efforts in Yemen. The world body's Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg told the Security Council on Wednesday that the situation in Yemen deserves its full attention. However, the United States maintains it will continue to defend itself against Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in […]

15 February, 2024

Namibia

Ondonga Traditional Authority Raises Alarm Over Unaddressed Hazards of B1 Road Borrow Pits

The Ondonga Traditional Authority is expressing growing concern about the escalating number of unrehabilitated borrow pits along the B1 road. At a recent Omuthiya Constituency workshop, OTA representative Martin Elago underscored the imminent threats these sand mining pits pose to both human and animal safety. Elago urged companies awarding tenders to enforce strict adherence to safety rules, particularly focusing on the urgent need for rehabilitation measures in construction projects to […]

15 February, 2024

South Africa

GOOD Party Criticizes South Africa’s Human Settlements White Paper

The GOOD Party in South Africa voices reservations about the White Paper for Human Settlements, arguing that it undermines citizens' rights to adequate housing. Criticized for restructuring without enhancement, the paper is accused of potentially diminishing the state's constitutional responsibility. Brett Herron, GOOD Party's secretary-general, emphasizes that the current approach falls short of addressing the urgent need for improved housing initiatives, stating that access to decent housing is more than […]

15 February, 2024

World

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi inaugurates grand Hindu temple in the UAE

India's prime minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated a grand Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. This follows his recent inauguration of a long-planned temple in the north of the country, which was built on the site of a mosque that was torn down by a Hindu mob. Rebecca Bundhun reports from Mumbai.

15 February, 2024

South Africa

SA Council on Higher Education Urges Periodic Employee Qualification Verification

In a renewed plea, the South African Council on Higher Education is urging employers to regularly verify the qualifications of their staff. Whitfield Green, the council's CEO, has underscored a growing trend in incidents related to counterfeit certificates, fraudulent activities, and the misrepresentation of qualifications. Green emphasizes that these deceptive certificates are being issued by individuals unaffiliated with the Quality Assurance Council Umalusi, cautioning the public against acquiring fake credentials. […]

15 February, 2024

Namibia

Gobabis Local Authority Councillor Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault on Schoolboy

A Gobabis local authority councillor was arrested following accusations of sexually molesting a 19-year-old schoolboy at the town. The incident reportedly occurred at the Omaheke governor's office, where the suspect allegedly instructed the victim to follow him to a toilet, leading to the alleged assault. The councillor is scheduled to appear in the Gobabis Magistrate’s Court, with investigations ongoing.

15 February, 2024

Business / Economics

WEEKLY ECONOMICS WRAP: Global Economic Developments Impacting Various Sectors

In a week marked by significant economic events, here's a roundup of key developments across different regions: Namibia: Plastic Bag Pricing Probe and TotalEnergies' Investment Focus The Environment, Forestry, and Tourism ministry in Namibia are investigating potential overpricing of plastic bags by retailers. Preliminary findings indicate that some businesses are charging between N$1 and N$5 per plastic carry bag, prompting concerns about adherence to government-mandated rates. On a positive note, […]

15 February, 2024

World

UK peer warns of unintended impact of Rwanda bill

The former chief of the British armed forces has warned that the threat to deport migrants to Rwanda may undermine trust and co-operation between the UK and its allies. He urged peers to support an amendment to the bill moving through Parliament that would see battlefield allies and their families protected against future deportation to the African nation. Lara Brehmer reports from London.

15 February, 2024

South Africa

South African Poultry Association Expresses Concerns Over Market Inquiry

The South African Poultry Association raises concerns about assumptions made by the Competition Commission in its announcement of a market inquiry into the poultry industry value chain. The association objects to remarks about bailouts and anti-dumping duties, urging increased support for the industry amidst challenges.

15 February, 2024