insert_link South Africa South Africa’s minister of Basic Education has announced plans to review the Grade 12 pass mark South Africa's minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, has announced plans to review the Grade 12 pass mark, currently at 30-percent. Gwarube, addressing criticism of the existing pass rate, also revealed plans to establish an advisory council comprising key stakeholders and experts. The council aims to ensure efforts to strengthen education are targeted, evidence-based, and informed by best practices. She says the focus is on enhancing literacy and numeracy: todayJuly 17, 2024 65
insert_link Namibia Minister Emma Theofelus Advocates Digital Transformation at 8th National ICT Summit At the Handover Ceremony of the 8th National ICT Summit, minister Emma Theofelus spoke under the theme "Building Resilience to Adapt or Die In The Era Of Digital Transformation And Artificial Intelligence". The leader highlighted that digital transformation presents unprecented opportunities for innovation, economic growth and societal advancement. todayJuly 17, 2024 35
insert_link Health / Medical Progress in Neonatal Unit Construction and ICU Expansion Highlight Ministry’s Healthcare Commitment Ben Nangombe, Executive Director of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, praised progress on the N$27 million Neonatal Unit at Swakopmund Hospital, which faced delays but is now advancing under a new contractor. The unit, set to be completed in six months, will include 28 beds for standard, high-care, and intensive care, supporting decentralized healthcare to ease pressure on central hospitals. Nangombe also highlighted efforts to enhance ICU services […] todayJuly 17, 2024 13
insert_link South Africa KwaZulu-Natal premier says due to the magnitude and frequency of disasters, the province is financially constrained In South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal premier ,Thami Ntuli says due to the magnitude and frequency of disasters, the province is financially constrained in providing the required relief to affected communities. Raging fires that occurred in various communities in the province’s northern and midlands areas have claimed at least 14 lives, with 25 others injured, and thousands left homeless. The deceased include six firefighters. Ntuli says the heavy rains, tornadoes, and fire […] todayJuly 17, 2024 16
insert_link Africa Sudan Conflict Displaces Over 10 Million, Worsens Hunger Crisis Reuters compiled this reports on the International Organization for Migration reporting on Tuesday that more than 10 million Sudanese, or 20% of the population, have been displaced since the conflict began in April 2023. This marks the world's largest displacement crisis. The ongoing war has left half of Sudan's 50 million people facing a hunger crisis and in urgent need of humanitarian aid. todayJuly 17, 2024 10
insert_link World UK Government To Lay Out Policy Goals In State Opening Of Parliament In the UK, the state opening of Parliament is taking place later to mark the official start of the new government's time in office. The ceremonial event is a chance for newly appointed Prime Minister Keir Starmer to lay out some of the key policies for the coming months. John Bevir (beaver) reports. todayJuly 17, 2024 6
insert_link Business / Economics TransUnion Study Shows Financial Optimism Among Namibians Despite Current Challenges A recent TransUnion Quarter 2 Consumer Pulse Study for this year reveals that while Namibian households continue to face financial difficulties, there is optimism about future income prospects. The study indicates that 38% of consumers experienced stagnant incomes and 34% faced decreases, while 28% reported increases. Despite high inflation averaging 5.9% in 2023, 81% of consumers, particularly younger generations, remain hopeful about their financial future. todayJuly 17, 2024 23
insert_link Interview Transcripts INTERVIEW: Understanding Microprudential Oversight: Insights from Business and Economics Researcher Josef Kefas Sheehama In a recent discussion, Josef Kefas Sheehama delved into the critical role of the Microprudential Oversight Committee (MOC) in Namibia's financial landscape. Addressing key concerns raised by recent reports, Sheehama underscored the committee's pivotal function in safeguarding financial stability amidst economic challenges. The conversation was sparked by findings from TransUnion indicating that nearly 49% of Namibians struggle to meet their financial obligations. Sheehama emphasized that such statistics underscore the urgency […] todayJuly 17, 2024 12
insert_link South Africa S.A’s Automobile Association reports minor changes in fuel prices for next month S.A's Automobile Association reports minor changes in fuel prices for next month, with mid-month data indicating slight decreases, with 95-octane petrol down seven-cents per litre and 93-octane petrol down four-cents per litre. Diesel prices may slightly go down by one-cent per litre. While illuminating paraffin could increase by approximately six-cents per litre. The Association’s spokesperson Eleanor Mavimbela says despite decreases, high fuel prices persist, urging a review of the fuel […] todayJuly 17, 2024 15