insert_link Namibia Namibians Face Lower Incomes in Election Year Compared to 2015 For the first time, Namibians are experiencing lower average incomes in an election year compared to 2015, according to economist Robin Sherbourne. Speaking at the Institute for Public Policy Research’s annual state of the economy event, Sherbourne highlighted that gross domestic product per capita fell from judt over 64 thousand in 2015 to N$50,079 in 2023. Sherbourne suggested that the economic downturn could influence voter sentiment in the upcoming elections. […] todayAugust 30, 2024 7
insert_link World Kamala Harris Defends Record, Criticizes Trump in First Interview Since 2024 Bid Kamala Harris, in her first interview since announcing her 2024 U.S presidential bid, defended her record and criticized former U.S President Donald Trump. The interview, aired on CNN, addressed her policy positions on key issues including the economy, immigration, and energy. Harris also responded to criticism about her media presence following President Biden's endorsement of her candidacy. todayAugust 30, 2024 22
insert_link Business / Economics Business and Economics Researcher Warns of Political Risks in SOE Reforms Business and Economics Researcher Josef Kefas Sheehama recently discussed the state of state-owned enterprises in South Africa and Namibia. He expressed concerns about South Africa's proposal to transfer SOE shareholder responsibilities to relevant ministries, such as their Ministry of Energy. While acknowledging the potential benefits, Sheehama cautioned that increased political involvement could undermine SOE efficiency and effectiveness, exacerbating existing challenges. todayAugust 30, 2024 30
insert_link Business / Economics INTERVIEW: State-Owned Enterprises: Insights from Business and Economics Researcher Josef Kefas Sheehama In a recent discussion, Business and Economics Researcher Josef Kefas Sheehama shared his perspectives on the state of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in South Africa and Namibia, shedding light on critical issues and proposed reforms. Sheehama addressed the current proposal in South Africa to reassign the shareholder responsibilities of SOEs to relevant ministries, such as the Ministry of Energy. While acknowledging the potential benefits of this move, he expressed concerns about […] todayAugust 30, 2024 11
insert_link Africa Al-Qaeda-Linked Group Claims Responsibility for Deadly Burkina Faso Attack An al-Qaeda-linked group claimed responsibility for Saturday’s attack in north-central Burkina Faso. Reuters says it reported nearly 300 fatalities and stated they targeted militia members, not civilians. However, local reports suggest at least 400 people were killed, including civilians digging defensive trenches under military orders. The assault, near Barsalogho, is one of the deadliest in nearly a decade of Islamist violence in the region. todayAugust 30, 2024 30
insert_link South Africa AfriForum and SAAI Urge Interpol Action on Cross-Border Stock Theft Between South Africa and Lesotho To South Africa, where AfriForum and the Southern African Agri Initiative have called on Interpol to enhance its efforts against growing cross-border stock theft between South Africa and Lesotho. They stress the critical role of livestock farming in regional economy and food security, urging for better assessment of criminal syndicates and increased support for local law enforcement. SAAI’s Theo de Jager advocates for a robust monitoring framework to address these […] todayAugust 30, 2024 11
insert_link World Harris leads Trump in new national poll U.S Democrat, Kamala Harris leads her republican presidential rival Donald Trump 45% to 41% in a new Reuters Ipsos poll. Thursday's snapshot reflects a shake up in the race since the Vice President replaced President Joe Biden as the democratic candidate. Here's Kate Fisher reporting from Washington: todayAugust 30, 2024 13
insert_link Business / Economics 30 August 2024 Morning Biz News: Letshego Namibia Upgraded, South Africa Inflation Falls, Global Shares Rise, and Major Entertainment Merger Approved GCR Ratings Upgrades Letshego Namibia's Long-Term Issuer Ratings GCR Ratings has upgraded Letshego Namibia’s long-term issuer ratings to A+(NA), citing the successful listing of a N$322 million social bond on the Namibian Stock Exchange. According to The Brief, the bond proceeds will bolster financial inclusion in crucial sectors such as housing, healthcare, and education. The outlook for Letshego Namibia is now Stable. South Africa's Producer Inflation Declines South Africa's producer […] todayAugust 30, 2024 23
insert_link Africa Nigeria and Niger Strengthen Security Ties Despite Ongoing Tensions Nigeria and Niger have signed a new agreement to enhance their security cooperation, the Nigerian military announced on Thursday reports Reuters. The deal, formalized through a memorandum of understanding by the defense chiefs in Niamey, aims to reinforce collaboration and promote regional stability, despite ongoing tensions following last year's coup in Niger. todayAugust 30, 2024 4