Opinion Pieces

How to talk to your family about money

By Mauriza Fredericks, Group Brand Manager, Old Mutual Namibia Money is a subject that often stirs unease, even within family circles. However, open and honest discussions about finances are indispensable for fostering trust and ensuring financial stability. In Namibia, where family bonds hold great significance, it's crucial to approach these conversations with sensitivity. This article delves into the art of conversing about money with three essential family groups: spouses, children, […]

4 December, 2023 31

Africa

Ghana wants to restrict imports on 22 products – an economist explains how, why and what else must be done

By Adu Owusu Sarkodie, University of Ghana Ghana’s Ministry of Trade and Industry has tabled in parliament a proposed ban or restrictions on imports of certain goods, including rice, sugar, poultry, fruit juices and animal intestines (tripe). The proposed legislation empowers the trade minister to issue licences to potential importers of goods. Critics of the policy say it will give too much power to the minister and create room for […]

1 December, 2023 7

Opinion Pieces

Henry Kissinger was a global – and deeply flawed – foreign policy heavyweight

Amelia Hadfield, University of Surrey Declarations of the end of an era are made only in exceptional circumstances. Henry Kissinger’s death is one of them. Kissinger was born into a Jewish family in Germany, and fled to the US in 1938 after the Nazis seized power. He rose to one of the highest offices in the US government, and became the first person to serve as both secretary of state […]

1 December, 2023 10

Opinion Pieces

Navigating the future of leadership: Harnessing Gen Z’s potential in Namibia

By Stephanus Vries, Human Capital Manager, Old Mutual Namibia One of the unique qualities that Generation Z has is having grown during the digital era. This in itself provides a unique mix of abilities, principles, and viewpoints that have enormous potential to influence the future of leadership within Namibia. In this thought leadership article, we will examine how to manage Generation Z efficiently and match their skills to the advancement […]

30 November, 2023 20

Opinion Pieces

Can I borrow from my pension?

By Amos Kambonde, Manager Marketing Services at the Government Institutions Pension Fund The question of whether to borrow from one’s pension or not is one of the questions many members of pension funds ask regularly. Section 19(5) of the Pension Fund Act, 1956 (Act No. 24 of 1956) makes provision for members of pension funds to borrow either directly or against their pension fund savings for the purpose of purchasing […]

30 November, 2023 25

Business / Economics

The Importance of Business Planning for the Closing Seasons

By Josef Kefas Sheehama The holiday season is a particular instance when you might have a lot of different demands on your time, both professionally and personally. Before you know it, you’re halfway through December and the Christmas shut-down period is just around the corner. In order to really switch off from your business it pays to do a little forward planning first. Just because you’re taking a well-earned break […]

29 November, 2023 14

Opinion Pieces

Is time travel even possible? An astrophysicist explains the science behind the science fiction

a If traveling into the past is possible, one way to do it might be sending people through tunnels in space. by raggio5 via Pixabay Adi Foord, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com. Will it ever be possible for time travel to occur? – Alana C., […]

29 November, 2023 10

Opinion Pieces

Investing in Your Future – A Holiday Gift to Yourself

The holiday season, with its festive spirit and gift-giving traditions, prompts us to reflect on what truly matters in life. Amidst the joy and merriment, it's worth considering a gift to yourself that transcends the immediate pleasures of the season – the gift of financial security through long-term investments. As we approach the end of the year, there's no better time to contemplate the future and take steps to secure […]

29 November, 2023 31

Health / Medical

Why a social media detox may not be as good for you as you think – new research

DimaBerlin/Shutterstock Niklas Ihssen, Durham University and Michael Wadsley, Durham University Whether you’re an influencer, an occasional poster, or just a lurker, you likely spend more time than you’d like on social media. Globally, working-age people with internet access now spend more than 2.5 hours per day on social platforms like Instagram, Facebook or X (Twitter). Social media use can become excessive and problematic when it interferes with school or work, […]

28 November, 2023 19