From Blog to Book.

’milton-louw.blogspot.com’
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Contents

1 2009 9
1.1 January . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Starting 2009 with a plan (2009-01-05 10:18) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1.2 February . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Philosophy Farm 101 (2009-02-28 17:37) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1.3 March . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Thoughts on Prosperity (2009-03-12 09:37) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Central Register for Namibia (2009-03-12 11:47) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
ICT Recommendations for Namibia (2009-03-15 10:43) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Independence 2007 (2009-03-15 10:52) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Never too old to learn (2009-03-15 10:53) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Namibian Family Tree (2009-03-15 11:39) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Independence 2009 - reasons for registers (2009-03-22 10:12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Culling of Wildebeest applies to beer (2009-03-22 12:27) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Credit Reporting Agency for Namibia (2009-03-25 09:59) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
The need for Credit Bureaux in Namibia (2009-03-26 14:24) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
News 26 March 2009 (2009-03-26 20:35) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
1.4 April . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Keep you cell number - change your network (2009-04-12 17:54) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Monopolies in Namibia (2009-04-12 17:55) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Search only Namibian websites (2009-04-12 18:02) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
God’s messages (2009-04-12 19:06) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Love Freedom Profile (2009-04-13 20:37) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
On being Coloured (2009-04-14 19:15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Chinese a good thing for Namibia (2009-04-16 10:08) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Me and bad debts (2009-04-23 13:53) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Finished my book! (2009-04-24 16:34) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
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 1.5 June . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Having children is not easy (2009-06-05 17:32) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Being thankful in the face of adversity (2009-06-12 15:46) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
1.6 July . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Unionise the ICT / Data workers of Namibia (2009-07-20 17:14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Corruption (2009-07-25 12:41) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
1.7 August . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Foundation of Education (2009-08-05 11:20) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
(2009-08-06 11:16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Influence of teachers - in memory of Heidi (Persendt) Japhta (2009-08-07 13:30) . . . . . . 33
Loss of respect for the elderly (2009-08-13 13:30) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Effective combating of crime (2009-08-18 10:48) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Bring back forced labour (2009-08-18 10:50) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Loving a prostitute (2009-08-21 12:18) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
White and Black Economic Empowerment (2009-08-25 17:37) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
1.8 September . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
SharePoint is the next thing you need (2009-09-01 11:45) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Overview of SharePoint capabilities (2009-09-10 13:27) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Create an Internet Action Group for Namibia (2009-09-10 13:28) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
What is love? (2009-09-24 15:27) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
1.9 October . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
History of the Namibian Coloureds (2009-10-06 11:13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Understanding Microsoft Certifications (2009-10-07 15:29) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Inspiring children to read (2009-10-12 10:24) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
God’s making space in my hands (2009-10-17 14:56) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Sun is shining, weather is hot (2009-10-17 15:03) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
1.10 November . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Shortest job I ever had (2009-11-04 12:02) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Consumer Protection in Namibia (2009-11-13 09:40) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Induction Training for Parliamentarians (2009-11-16 10:27) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Charter of Namibian Consumer Rights (2009-11-17 10:41) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Cultural Differences in Namibia (2009-11-24 15:06) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Namibia Consumer Protection Group Complaint Form (2009-11-27 11:16) . . . . . . . . . . 46
1.11 December . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Is a serious third party needed in Namibian politics? (2009-12-08 15:32) . . . . . . . . . . . 46
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 Increasing employment - a government dilemma (2009-12-09 10:36) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Namibia Consumer Hotline (2009-12-11 10:19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Legal Insurance in Namibia (2009-12-15 11:40) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Consumer Hotline for Namibia (2009-12-15 16:19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

2 2010 51
2.1 January . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Namibia needs a national register (2010-01-07 09:12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Sssshhhh.... I know your home address (2010-01-07 10:52) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Marginalization of Coloureds must end (2010-01-13 13:10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Coloured issue can t be ignored (2010-01-13 13:12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
What is success? (2010-01-13 13:42) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
This Colour Thing in Namibia (2010-01-13 16:44) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
I know, I know Not (2010-01-14 12:30) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Namibia Consumer Hotline (2010-01-22 16:36) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Desiderata - Be a person becoming by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 13:59) . . . . . . . . . . . 58
”A Prayer” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:00) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
”Whatever else you do” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
”Reforming Oneself” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:11) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
” Dark Days” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
”Wanderers” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Cinderella - Roald Dahl (2010-01-29 14:26) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
”I go my way” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:49) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
”Happiness” by Max Erdmann (2010-01-29 14:50) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
2.2 February . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Abortion - what else do we have to offer? (2010-02-05 11:46) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Extended CreditWise Consumer Protection (2010-02-05 11:47) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
I am a Success! (2010-02-05 11:50) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
The lady on the farm (2010-02-05 11:52) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Celebrating four decades (2010-02-05 11:54) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
On being a father (2010-02-05 11:55) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Forgiving is a hard journey (2010-02-05 11:56) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
To my ex-wife (2010-02-05 11:56) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Brotherhood among us (1987) (2010-02-22 12:23) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
2.3 April . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Fire Nampower MD! (2010-04-14 11:37) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
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 World Consumer Rights Day 2010 - ’Our money, our rights’ (2010-04-14 11:37) . . . . . . . 67
Nampower management should be fired (2010-04-14 11:38) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
How to get FB without accessing the site (your company blocked it) (2010-04-14 11:38) . . 68
Crucifixion vs. Resurrection (2010-04-14 11:39) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
No to leaderless consumer protest actions in Namibia (2010-04-19 09:30) . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Open letter to Lodewyk van Graan, Chairperson of the ICT Alliance of Namibia
(2010-04-26 16:19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
2.4 May . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Lodewyk van Graan responds to Open Letter (2010-05-24 13:19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Are our Educational Institutions simply ripping us off? (2010-05-24 13:52) . . . . . . . . . 72
(2010-05-26 16:53) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
The relevance of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) to the implementation of competition
policy and law in Namibia (2010-05-26 16:54) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Black Economic Empowerment is needed in Namibia (2010-05-28 13:03) . . . . . . . . . . . 95
2.5 July . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Legal shielding products a rip off! (2010-07-06 18:19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
On tribal integration in Namibia (2010-07-20 09:25) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
2.6 August . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Namibia and Integration (2010-08-14 12:40) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Local economic development in Otjimbingwe (2010-08-18 11:01) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Namibian Ministries Re-engineered (2010-08-19 12:27) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Lady of my Dreams (2010-08-21 13:13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Do you love me? (2010-08-21 13:16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
My True Feelings (2010-08-21 13:17) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Love thoughts (2010-08-21 13:28) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Why do you like a guy like me? (2010-08-21 13:29) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Song on my Radio (2010-08-21 13:29) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Heart thief (2010-08-21 13:38) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Head over Heels (2010-08-21 13:57) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Prisoner of Love (2010-08-21 14:00) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
I want you!! (2010-08-21 14:03) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Doing it for you, Collette (2010-08-21 14:04) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Proving our love (2010-08-21 14:11) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Your Love has shown me (2010-08-21 14:40) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Thank you! Collette (2010-08-21 15:01) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
The Leftist Capitalist (2010-08-23 12:52) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
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 Our Big Brother South Africa (2010-08-23 15:16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
An exploration into the Coloured market (2010-08-24 12:28) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
My Birthday girl - (Collette Campher 17 June 1987) (2010-08-25 10:54) . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Birthday Poem (17 June 1987 Collette turns 18) (2010-08-25 10:56) . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Love Triangle (2010-08-25 10:57) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Unopened Love bud (2010-08-25 11:43) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
My Philosoply on Life (2010-08-25 12:35) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
A girl called Bernadette (2010-08-25 16:06) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Can I be sure? (2010-08-25 16:07) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Incomprehensible Poem - By: A Broken Heart (2010-08-25 16:08) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
You re the one for me! (Dedicated to Yolanda Esterhuisen) (2010-08-25 16:08) . . . . . . . 117
Being with you (2010-08-25 16:09) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Missing you! (2010-08-25 16:10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Wanting you Again (My love for you still lives) (2010-08-25 16:14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Freedom Flight (2010-08-25 16:16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Memories (2010-08-25 16:16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Captives of Freedom (2010-08-25 16:20) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Secrets (2010-08-25 17:05) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Wander Lust (2010-08-25 17:13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
The Blues (2010-08-25 17:35) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Reality (2010-08-25 17:41) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
No More (2010-08-25 17:58) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Friends (2010-08-25 17:59) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Unexpected Love (2010-08-25 18:06) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Valentine 89 (2010-08-25 18:06) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Something Read Something Said! (2010-08-25 18:07) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
A Fleeting moment of Happiness (2010-08-25 18:07) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Brotherhood among us (2010-08-25 18:08) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Why?? (2010-08-25 18:08) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Child of Africa (2010-08-25 18:09) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Legislation for informational privacy in Namibia (2010-08-30 14:41) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
2.7 September . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Panarotti’s Thursday eat all you can (2010-09-03 16:09) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Are Namibian coloureds a distinct cultural/indigenous group? (2010-09-20 14:42) . . . . . . 128
A consumer law in Namibia should protect people who are renting (2010-09-23 17:01) . . . 128
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 More Namibians have access to banking World Bank (2010-09-24 08:34) . . . . . . . . . . 130
2.8 October . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Motion on Unemployed Namibians with or without Professional Qualifications
(2010-10-19 13:39) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Contribution to the Employment Service Bill By Chief Ankama (2010-10-19 14:46) . . . . . 132
Proposal for Joint Education Programme for Israeli and Palestinian Administrators
(2010-10-25 08:50) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Namibia: WACS cable will arrive in 2011 but monopoly legacy holds back prices and growth
(2010-10-25 09:01) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

8
Chapter 1

2009

1.1 January

Starting 2009 with a plan (2009-01-05 10:18)

The year 2008 ended on a fairly low note as I realised I needed (through necessity) to find a new employment
or direction for my life. A friend of mine with a guest farm in the remote farming district of Otjimbingwe
invited me to visit him and his family for a few days starting on the 2nd of January.
WOW! Getting away from it all has never been so exhilarating. We get up in the morning and go jogging
up the Kudu Trail and have a magnificent view for miles around. Jog back down and then it is time for
breakfast. The best part is we get to chat along the way and discuss various business ideas. In fact, some of
them are so good we are still working at them ten years later ;-).
This year he suggested I write a book. Not any book - mind you, but a book on my thoughts for the economic
development of Namibia. Scary to say the least.
Well, I have never been one to sit too long on an idea so started writing to see if I could. Within two days
we have thrashed out the framework for the book and now I have to make a decision on whether I actually
have the guts to do it?

1.2 February

Philosophy Farm 101 (2009-02-28 17:37)

Hi, Milton Louw here on Farm Okomitundu, 170 km from Windhoek ([1]www.okomitundu.com). It is a
Guest Farm with all the amenities, 2 heated swimming pools (;-), nature drives, hiking trails and much,
much more.
In fact, the other morning while jogging I suddenly rounded the farm dam and saw a group of about 20
wildebeest. I stood still while they ran about 20 metres and looked back at me. They reminded me of sales
assistants in a clothing store on a Saturday morning watching my daughters and I enter. They instinctively
know my daughters and I are window shopping, not yet ready to buy. In the same way the wildebeest knew
I was here to look not to catch and eat.
I was still marvelling at this encounter when I looked up to see an Oryx directly ahead in my path. He spent
a few seconds looking at me before disappearing behind a bush. When I came to the place the Oryx was,
there was small clearing and he had only reversed some 20 metres into the bush. It looked very much as if
9
we had come to a crossing at the same time and he was giving me the ”right of way”.
As I jogged further, a peace came over me knowing that while the animal andtheir families were being looked
after, mine would be too.

So, here I am taking a break from the rat race and philosophising? In fact, I hope to prepare some articles
on various relevant issues (and will keep them posted on a regular basis) to be incorporated into a book I
am writing.
Though for the week:
”The cure, therefore, of political ills is knowledge of the good life, and the statesman is he who has such
knowledge, for that alone can give men what they are always seeking.” - Introduction to Aristotle’s Treatise
on Government translation by William Ellis (1912)
Remember, my email address is [2]miltonlouw@gmail.com.
Enjoy your weekend, I am off for a beer in the swimming pool...
Milton
1. http://www.okomitundu.com/
2. mailto:miltonlouw@gmail.com

1.3 March

Thoughts on Prosperity (2009-03-12 09:37)

Hi, Milton Louw here in Walvis Bay. Just came through for the day and had to have some seafood at the
Raft (excellent platter ;-). Very fortunate to see some good friends too while in Swakopmund and WB.

Thought for the week:

Prosperity is a way of living and thinking, and not just money or things. Poverty is a way of living and
thinking, and not just a lack of money or things. -Eric Butterworth
It is good to have money and the things that money can buy, but it’s good too, to check up once in a while
and make sure you haven’t lost the things money can’t buy. - George Lorimer
Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father! - Lydia Maria Child

Regards
Milton
Cell: + 264 81 304 3282

Central Register for Namibia (2009-03-12 11:47)

The following report was prepared for a workshop in August 1999 held in Windhoek. Some interesting
reading on what the original business idea was. Posted here for posterity.
Milton

Central Register for Namibia

Prepared by:
Creditreform International
Dr. Dieter Südhofen, Secretary General
10
Preamble:
The special political situation as well as the reorganisation and restructuring of the state machinery aimed at
in Namibia have provided a special opportunity to set up a central register which is organised in accordance
with the latest aspects of computing, takes all essential legislation concerning data protection into account
and reaches an efficiency ratio which Germany can unfortunately only dream of at present. The knowledge
gained from setting up a modern central register could then be made available to other countries.
Objectives:
The data which has to be processed by state institutions for a modern social market economy should be
organised with the aid of the latest data technology. Germany should be taken as a basis with regard to
the essential data. Sufficient experience regarding the individual data necessary has been gathered here as
a result of successfully establishing a social market economy. The updating and use of the data has to be
separately analysed for Namibia to bring about the optimum benefit for Namibia. Any implementation of
the project should fundamentally begin with the core applications. A feasibility study would have to be
ordered in the short term to examine the further development of the project.
Contents and Set-up of a Central Register in Namibia
The registers kept in Germany are described in more detail below. They have grown historically and are, for
the most part, still administered by hand at present. Various neighbouring countries are already way ahead
in that respect, by administering the data fully by computer technology. When setting up a new central
register, it should therefore, from the very beginning, be set up and organised from the viewpoint of today s
computer technology. Starting out from the natural and legal persons, it is necessary to set up a total stock
of data which forms the basis for all essential registers. From that, each individual register independently and
responsibly administers the which concerns it. Every access is recorded taking the law on data protection
into account. The access authorisations of individual employees are controlled by computer in accordance
with work sequence requirements.
After the total quantity of data has been put together, it must finally be determined what data is available at
what offices on what medium in Namibia, so that it can be used as the basis such an entire central register.
The total quantities can then be approximately determined and a rough computing concept can be drawn
up.
Realisation of a Public Register
1.Principle and goal for the realisation of a public register
The creation of a register for recording and collecting stocks of data results from, amongst other things, the
necessity to check, protect and historically prove data and its origin.
The aim thereby, with regard to the final result of all data recorded, must be to completely show facts and
information which can be checked and controlled as regards the legislation on data protection. The consistent
realisation of a register offers the basis for information systems and applications in industry and administra-
tion. On the whole, this offers the chance to set up databases and application systems in a co-ordinated and
homogenous manner whilst avoiding a proliferation of partial solutions and insular solutions as is the case
in Germany for example which can hardly be combined and co-ordinated in future.
1.1 Prerequisite
Setting-up of a central database adapted to the requirements, with the possibility of locally updating the
respective stock of data to be processed.
1.2 The Central database
All externally recorded and processed information of the public register should be gathered and stored in
this database.
1.3 External database stations
Data is recorded, processed and used here in different areas. The respective data stock of these database
stations should be transmitted to the central database daily, to enable data security (storage) on the one
hand and, on the other hand, the use of essential information by calling up other external database stations.
Additionally, a speedy exchange of information between the different database stations would be possible in
that way.
11
1.4 Central and local solutions and applications
Based on the central register, applications which support administrative, economic and social interests from
the municipal and regional level to the national level have to be added for the different specialised require-
ments.
2. Contents of the public register
2.1 Register of residents
This external database station generally registers private person s data. Persons are registered here along
with their personal data by the respective local government body (town, local authority). The citizens of a
country are registered here in the entirety of all the data recorded. The stored information serves the duties
to report and register and is stored as a basis for internal and external administrative purposes.
2.1.1 Contents
- Surname, first name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Occupation
- Title
- Employer
- Home address (street/place)
- Resident there since when:
- Moved from which address
- Marital status
- Name of spouse, if married
- Spouse s date of birth
- Spouse s occupation
- Number of children
- Name of children
- Children s date of birth
- Address if parents are separated
- Earlier home addresses
2.2 Commercial register data
All information relating to commercial register data should be administered in this external database station.
It should be kept as an official and public register of all fully qualified merchants. The aim and object of the
commercial register is to officially deposit commercial and legal basis contracts of all fully qualified merchants
active in business, to enable them to be checked and historically proven.
2.2.1 Contents of the commercial register database
Facts requiring registration:
a) Name of company
- complete company name
- legal form
b) Corporate domicile of the company
- address (place and street / P.O. Box
- addresses of any branch offices
c) Purpose of the company
- branch number (s)
- tax number
- turnover tax identification number (VAT)
d) Owners and partners
- name, personal place of residence (address)
- date of birth
- name of occupation, title
12
e) Subscribed capital
- sum of liable capital
- capital shares paid up and still outstanding
f) List of partners (sum of capital shares)
- name and address of the individual partners
- plus date of birth in case of private persons
- plus commercial register number in the case of company holdings
g) Managing persons in relation to third parties
- managing directors, supervisory board members, management board members,
- advisory board members, authorised officers
- name and address plus date of birth, name of occupation, title
h) Financial statements deposited
- business reports
- balance-sheet-data
- notes to the financial statements
- annual report
i) Notarial deeds (instruments)
- the company s official documents
- memorandums of association
- amending contracts
- supplementary contracts
j) Peculiarities
- licences
- patents
- utility models / registered designs
2.3 Register of co-operative societies
This external database serves to prove the legal relations of the co-operative societies to the general public.
It exists as an independent register in addition to the commercial register. The functions and objectives are
comparable.
2.3.1 Contents of the register of co-operative societies
They are identical to the data of the commercial register, but should be supplemented by the following
additional points:
a) the articles of association, which have to be signed by the members
b) a list of members (holders of shares in the co-operative society)
c) the duration of the co-operative society, if it is limited to a certain period only
2.4 Insolvent debtors data / Register of insolvent debtors
Facts requiring registration:
a) Surname of the person
b) All known first names of the person
c) Date of birth
d) Place of residence (street/place)
e) Any second place of residence
f) Name of occupation (title)
g) Stage names, if existent
h) Form of entry in the insolvent debtors register
2.4.2 Contents of insolvent debtors data for legal persons
Facts requiring registration:
a) Name of company
b) Address (street/place)
c) P.O. Box /town
13
d) Representatives of the company in relation to third parties
- e.g. the managing directors
- surname / first name
- address (private)
- date of birth
e) The company s commercial register
f) Commercial register number
g) Form of entry in the insolvent debtors register
2.5 Marriage property register
In this external database station, spouses have the possibility of having the property regime of spouses
property increments agreed upon by contracts (marriage contract) and registered. The main function of the
marriage property register is to document marital communities of accrued gain or marital ties regulated by
a marriage contract, so they can be used as a basis for any legal disputes.
2.5.1 Contents
a) Surname/first name of the wife/husband
b) Maiden name of wife/husband if applicable
c) Dates of birth of the married couple
d) Date of marriage
e) Date of marriage contract
f) Notarial recording of the marriage contract
2.6 Register of associations
Groupings (associations) whose purpose is not directed towards a commercial establishment are registered
here. The independent register of associations is otherwise to be treated equivalent to the commercial register
and the register of co-operative societies and, in that respect, also has the same functions of registration,
checking and control.
2.6.1 Contents
a) Name of the association
b) Address (street/place)
c) Members of the association
- Surname, first name
- Address (private)
- Date of birth
d) Association s registration number
e) Association s registry court
f) Representative authority of the persons representing in relation to third parties
2.7 Trade Register
Traders have to be recorded in this external database station, irrespective of their legal form. In that respect,
the trade register stores all necessary information for offices which further process that information. It is
deemed to be, amongst other things, the basis and starting point for the taxation of persons carrying on
a trade. No trade may be carried on without being registered in this register. Following an examination,
the trade register grants a trade licence and checks how the trade is allowed for example, such as a health
certificate in the case of traders in the field of foodstuffs or gastronomy, are checked and monitored.
2.7.1 Contents
- Surname, first name of the trader
- The owner s address (street/P.O. Box /place)
- Owner s date of birth
- Owner s occupation / name of occupation
- Existing titles (e.g. title of Master craftsman)
- Purpose of the business
- Address of the business premises or any branch offices
14
- Essential special certificates
- Permits for special business enterprises
2.8 Land register
All information concerning the residential property and real estate of private persons and legal persons (com-
panies) should be recorded in the land register. The land register is the official basis for registering private
residential property and real estate as well as any financial encumbrance (mortgages), which are entered as
a land charge in the land register. It provides information on the actual current owner of a house/property)
and on any previous owners. The property situation is clearly registered and laid down with the aid of that
data.
2.8.1 Contents
- Address of real estate property
- Size of the real estate / the property in square metres
- Current market value
- Sum of the registered land charge
- Financing mortgage bank
- Surname / first name of the owner (part-owner)
- Date of birth
- Private address of the owner
- Size of the registered property as a percentage
- Date of the purchase of the property
- Former owners
- Notarial recordings
2.9 Register of bankruptcies and compositions
Entries of or about private persons and legal persons with regard to bankruptcy and composition proceed-
ings applied for, opened, to be carried out or ended are stored here. The register registers, co-ordinates and
monitors the measures to be carried out in things, as an intermediary point between the bankruptcy and /
or composition proceedings, the courts and the respective creditors. The official dates are recorded here and
released for publication.
2.9.1 Contents for private persons
- Reference number
- Surname, first name
- Address (street / place)
- Date of birth
- Occupation
- Employer
- Marital status
- Name of spouse
- Application data composition
- Opening data composition/bankruptcy
- Closing data - composition/bankruptcy
- Measures taken
- Auctions
- Levies of execution
2.9.2 Contents for legal persons
- Reference number
- Company name
- Address (street / place)
- Commercial register data (district court/commercial register number)
- Purpose of the company
- Representatives of the company
15
- Name of the capital holders (partners)
- Address of the partners (plus date of birth)
- Name of the persons representing the company in relation to third parties
- Address of those persons (plus date of birth)
- Application data composition/bankruptcy
- Bankruptcy/composition trustee
- Official receivership data (prohibitions of sale)
- Name of official receiver
- Stipulated dates (examination dates)
- Opening data composition/bankruptcy
- Closing data - composition/bankruptcy
- Measures taken
- Auctions
- Levies of execution
- The company s assets
- The company s liabilities
- Composition dividends
- Bankruptcy realisation assets

ICT Recommendations for Namibia (2009-03-15 10:43)

”First posted 4 May 2007”

Hi, Milton here in Windhoek. Sitting in the office on a public holiday getting some work done!
Last week I was questioned on the achievements of the ICT Alliance, so I thought to give a short overview
of the recommendations recently accepted by the Government of Namibia in the area of Information and
Communication Technology. The conference report details the areas Namibia will have to concentrate on if
we wish to make ICT a pillar of our Vision 2030 and was developed in partnership between the Ministry and
the ICT Alliance.
My thought for this week - specifically with our neighbouring Zimbabwe in mind:
”Him that I love, I wish to be free – even from me.” - Anne Lindbergh
Kind regards
Milton Louw
+ 264 81 3043282
milton@iit.com.na

The previous Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (now Ministry of Information and Communication
Technology - MICT) held a conference in August 2007 on the role of ICT in Namibia. The conference was
organised together with the Namibia Communication Commission and the ICT Alliance.
The main objectives of this Conference were as follows:
o To assess the current reality of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Namibia
o To identify the challenges and opportunities for ICT in the country
o To propose ways in which ICT can contribute to poverty alleviation and sustainable development in Namibia
o And ultimately, to identify how ICT can assist Namibia in achieving its Vision 2030.
The key expectation of the Namibian Minister of Information and Broadcasting for the Conference was to
generate practical recommendations assisting Government in preparing a roadmap to accelerate economic
development and prosperity for all through the use of ICT.
16
The conference had two parts, the first dealing with the present status of the industry, and the second dealing
with recommendations for future action on the part of the country.
A report was submitted to the Cabinet of Namibia and they have accepted the recommendations and estab-
lished a Taskforce, under the leadership of the Permanent Secretary of the MICT, with the chairpersons of
the various conference sub-groups.
The sub-groups are:
o Government (Chair: Mr. Samuel Goagoseb)
o Legal framework (Mr. Hartmut Ruppel)
o Education (Mr. Alfred Ilukena represented by Mr. Johan van Wyk)
o Telecommunications and Broadcasting (Chair: Mr. Jochen Traut)
o Internet (Chair: Mr. Gideon Nhundu)
o ICT Industry (Chair: Mr. Theo Schoeman)
These are the broad outlines of the recommendations proposed during the Conference and accepted by the
Government of Namibia as areas of activity.
” Consolidation of overall ICT governance
” Free / Libre Open Source Software policy must be adopted
” Copyright legislation must be amended to include Creative Commons licensing
” Development of Broadband access (infrastructure) be accelerated
” Separate infrastructure ownership and usage
” Universal Service Fund must be clearly defined and administered
” Local companies must get preference in tenders
” E-commerce (electronic transactions) law must be passed
” Privacy and data protection must be addressed
” Top-level domain administration must be administered better
” Broadcasting policy must be created
” Investigate Tax incentives for ICT skills development
The taskforce is meeting regularly and will submit a report to Cabinet on the activities to be undertaken as
well as budgetary outlines.
If you wish to have a copy of the report, please send an email to milton@iit.com.na. If you wish to peruse
any of the presentations given at the conference, they can be found at http://www.ictalliance.org.na/ictnam.

Independence 2007 (2009-03-15 10:52)

*First Posted: 20 March 2007*

Hi, Milton Louw here from Windhoek. Just about to leave the office to go celebrate our Namibian Indepen-
dence tomorrow. Thinking back reminds me how our was the lucky person to raise the flag over Windhoek
that first morning from where the Polytechnic is today.
As the Chairperson of the tertiary Student’s Representative Council (Academy) in 1989/1990 I have to also
consider what the inheritance is of the students born those years and now ”enjoying the fruits of our freedom”.
I can categorically state that me and most of my generation have benefited greatly BUT................ I must
also admit that the young generation of today have been done in.
During this past week I was fortunate to talk to one of my mentors and idols, Toivo ya Toivo, and was once
again humbled when he was most pleased to hear that I am teaching some of the knowledge I have acquired
to the young generation of today. (I used to sometimes look down on the ”teaching profession” of Namibia-
now no more!)
So my challenge to you today dear friends is:
What have you done lately to give back to your community?
17
Viva Namibia, Viva Responsibility
Milton Louw
+ 264 81 3043282

Never too old to learn (2009-03-15 10:53)

*First Posted: 5 January 2007*

Hi, Milton Louw here from Windhoek in this first month of 2007. I hope you have had a relaxing vacation
(those of you who could afford to get away), and are ready for the challenges of 2007. May all you efforts be
rewarded with the success you work for.

Now how about a New Years resolution to include improving yourself..........

This week, I cover

1. Thought for the week
2. Life Long Learning
The next week means for most of us the return (or start) of school for our children. If you can, take just
five minutes each day and consider what they will become upon leaving school. Then, check to see if you are
doing everything possible to make their dreams come true.
Enjoy the week,
Milton
Cell: +264 81 304 3282

Thought for the week

We must encourage [each other] once we have grasped the basic points to interconnecting everything else on
our own, to use memory to guide our original thinking, and to accept what someone else says as a starting
point, a seed to be nourished and grow. For the correct analogy for the mind is not a vessel that needs filling
but wood that needs igniting no more and then it motivates one towards originality and instills the desire
for truth. Suppose someone were to go and ask his neighbors for fire and find a substantial blaze there, and
just stay there continually warming himself: that is no different from someone who goes to someone else to
get to some of his rationality, and fails to realize that he ought to ignite his own flame, his own intellect,
but is happy to sit entranced by the lecture, and the words trigger only associative thinking and bring, as it
were, only a flush to his cheeks and a glow to his limbs; but he has not dispelled or dispersed, in the warm
light of philosophy, the internal dank gloom of his mind.

• [1]Plutarch, On Listening to Lectures

Life-Long Learning
Are you satisfied with what you have achieved in life? Do you want to climb the ladder of life even higher?
Are you going to sit in an old age home at 60 and watch the world go by?
18
Today we recognise that finishing school or university is not the end of our learning experience. Think just
about computers, cellular phones, etc and how much you have had to learn over the past decade to stay
up to date with just having a life. How more so if you are in an ever changing working environment. This
demands from you an approach where you take charge of your career, rather than the old-fashioned view
that a career is what happens to you. Remember also, once you turn ”60”, it no longer means you have
nothing to contribute to your society.
Take the challenge this year, and choose something new to learn. Here are a few examples:

• Another language - how many of us will be able to talk with our Chinese counterparts as they ever
increasingly extend beyond their boundaries?

• A musical Instrument - even the drums can be learnt by those (like me) who say they cannot carry a
tune

• Computer program - Project management is all the rage and it will take you less than four days to
master a software package such as MS Project

This are but a few of the areas that I am exploring for 2007. Maybe you have other interests, maybe even a
hobby such as origami or bonsai, just as long as you keep them brain cells working.
For interest sake, I typed in ”life long learning” in the Google Search engine. I got back over 86,000,000 sites
that cover this topic. So remember, even if you do not consider life long learning, there are many other (your
probable competitors) who do. Have a look at this link for some great ideas, [2]http://www.newhorizons.org/.
Remember, you are never too old to learn.
1. http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Plutarch
2. http://www.newhorizons.org/

Namibian Family Tree (2009-03-15 11:39)

[1]
Hi, Milton here from the farm Okomitundu. I have visited the top of the Kudu Mountain, some 400 metres
above the farmhouse (1,670m above sea-level). I was being interviewed for the television programme Green
Horizons that should be broadcast on NBC TV on 26 March.
(Some people have asked for a picture of what the farm looks like, so have a look at [2]www.okomitundu.com.)
This week I have finished loading 250,000 Namibians information listed by surname on to the Internet. This
includes their name and surname, as well as their date of birth. See my article below and check if your details
are online. You might be surprised how many of your relatives are on as well ;-).
Thought for the week:
”Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you
19
need one.” Jane Howard
Kind regards
Milton
Email: miltonlouw@gmail.com
website: www.nambiz.co.cc

What is private?
How much of your data is on a computer? How much do companies, employers, the government, even enemies
know about your life? Even more worrying, how much of this information is publicly available?
Since 1999, I have been proposing a central register for Namibia (http://milton-louw.blogspot.com/2009/03-
/central-register-for-nami bia.html). This week I listed all people I have been able to collect information on,
in a family tree type website. It is available at www.nambiz.co.cc. You enter the yellow pages section and
will then have an alphabetical list. Choose the letter your surname starts with and a list of all surnames
starting with that letter will appear. Choose your surname, and a listing of everyone with the same surname
will appear. You will find their name as well as their date of birth (if it is in the system).
In my case, I checked my cousin, Merle Oosthuizen and found her birthday easily......
My hope is that after looking at the site you will consider the amount of information of yours that is already
being stored someplace. I hope this will get your support for a data protection and privacy act being made
law as soon as possible.
Remember, I am only one person and have been able to collect all this, what about those businesses who
have a lot more data on you?
Email me with your comments: miltonlouw@gmail.com

1. http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3z1n0AbIGHk/SbzO8bbjJyI/AAAAAAAAAAc/6zAHqu0lCgM/s1600-h/thefarm.jpg
2. http:/www.okomitundu.com/

Independence 2009 - reasons for registers (2009-03-22 10:12)

Hi, Milton here. Still at the farm, fortunate to have one of my daughters, Ziana, visit for the weekend.
Thought for the week:
If you’re respectful by habit,
constantly honoring the worthy,
four things increase:
long life, beauty,
happiness, strength. -Buddha Quote
Enjoy Namibia’s Independence Day!
Kind regards
Milton

Someone asked, why a website with directories of people and business?

The idea of creating an economic country database started in 1994 while working with the United Nations
Industrial Development Organisation in Paris, France. Since then I have collected over 11,000 businesses
details and 250,000 people. Once the data is collected and cleaned, there are many areas for possible
commercial use. However, it has till thus far only been used for research purposes when conducting surveys
of the Small and Medium Enterprises for example.
20
The main aim is still to create a Central Register for Namibia that will include amongst others:
Register of Residents;
Register of Business;
Register of Professions;
Register of Property Ownership;
Register of Licences for Natural Resources and Utilisation;
Register of Trademarks, Patents and Copyright;
Register of External Trade; and
Register of other legal entities.
During the past ten years, I have managed to create registers for persons, business and external trade. This
has assisted greatly in providing income opportunities for me in various areas in Research.
I would however like to make this information available to more people to see what opportunities might
arise.
Lastly, I am preparing a database with much deeper individual information (not yet sure about privacy
issues) to allow me to look at a credit assistance scheme that looks at ”reputational collateral” rather than
history of financial mistakes.

Culling of Wildebeest applies to beer (2009-03-22 12:27)

This is not only philosophical but is obviously pure science.

A herd of wildebeest can move only as fast as the slowest wildebeest, and when the herd is hunted, it is the
slowest and weakest ones at the back that are killed first.
This natural selection is good for the herd as a whole, because the general speed and health of the whole
group keeps improving by the regular culling of the weakest members.
In much the same way the human brain can only operate as fast as the slowest brain cells. Excessive intake
of alcohol, we all know, kills brain cells, but naturally it attacks the slowest and weakest brain cells first.
In this way regular consumption of beer eliminates the weaker brain cells, making the brain a faster and
more efficient machine. So that’s why you always feel smarter after a few beers.

Credit Reporting Agency for Namibia (2009-03-25 09:59)

*First posted on 23 June 2006*

SUBMISSION ON BANKING REGULATIONS VIS-À-VIS CREDIT PROVISION
The following is the submission made to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economics, Natural
Resources and Public Administration. They held public hearings on bank charges and regulations on 14 July
2006 in Windhoek.
The banking system in Namibia is presently facing difficulties in their abilities to provide financing for indi-
viduals and business, especially small and medium enterprises (SME’s). This problem is further influenced
by the present level of non-performing debt being experienced in all sectors that provide credit. This poor
performance on loans has led to many institutions having to recoup their losses, and provide themselves with
profit, through high interests and ”innovative” banking charges.
It is my opinion that this can be addressed through the increased usage of Information and Communication
Technologies. As an example, I attach a paper on the need for credit bureau, and the establishment of an
economic database to address this need. (if you wish a copy of the paper, please email me at [1]milton-
louw@gmail.com)
Through the sharing of information between public and private sectors (with the appropriate legislation to
21
prevent abuse), a reliable source of information can be provided which will necessitate the banking institu-
tions to become more competitive to attract clientele. This clientele in turn will be able to negotiate for
better rates, and lower charges, if they are aware of their own credit worthiness.
I remain at the convenience of the Committee to provide any further information they might require to en-
courage the necessary changes in legislation, as well as provide authority to the necessary public institutions,
to implement a system to encourage the responsible growth of the credit sector.
Lastly, I must add that I believe such a credit agency, whether public or private, will only facilitate the
provision of credit, and not provide moral influence on us as a society to ensure we keep our side of the
bargain and keep up our financial obligations.

Thought for the week:

”I sincerely believe that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies, and that the
principles of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity
on a large scale” - Thomas Jefferson (American 3rd President)
1. http://www.blogger.com/miltonlouw@gmail.com

The need for Credit Bureaux in Namibia (2009-03-26 14:24)

Submitted to Namibian Parliament on 13 July 2006

Providing affordable financing in Namibia

The need for Credit Bureaux

Introduction
In many developing countries the providers of finance have access to information in databases that help them
to asses the creditworthiness of an applicant for credit. With the appropriate credit risk management tools,
a lender can reduce the default levels, and provide finance at a cheaper rate to creditworthy clients. The
organisations that gather data and operate these services are known as Credit Bureaux, Credit Information
Services, Credit Registries, Credit Reporting Agencies or Consumer Credit Reference Agencies.
In Namibia, there is only one company, Transunion ITC, which provides a credit bureaux service for con-
sumer information and they collect primarily negative information (negative that is information on credit
defaults, judgements, etc.). A joint-venture between NamBizDotCom and Creditreform Germany, has been
developing a commercial database of over 11,000 companies and has completed a basic consumer database
of 250,000 people in January 2007. This credit information service (CRIB) is yet to be made commercially
available.
Credit Information Service
The creation of a credit report depends on the availability of information gathered from public records,
statutory information, credit applications and credit accounts on the individual consumers and businesses.
The bank (or other lender) accesses the service in the form of written reports and uses it to judge the appli-
cation risk before supplying the credit. The bank can also use the credit report, and its credit risk rating,
to determine the amount of the loan as well as the interest and other bank charges.
The usage of a credit report with more than just negative information assists growth in the country by
stimulating the consumer credit economy. Borrowers can be assessed for risk in an objective way based on
credit payment history so credit can be allocated more efficiently. Many new borrowers in Namibia have
no credit history, and assessment can be difficult with additional supportive reputational collateral. This
22
reputational collateral can include:
" proof of physical address
" ownership information on property
" family associations
" informal business history
" etc.
The existence of a Credit Bureau with sufficient information should assist growth by stimulating the con-
sumer credit economy. Borrowers can be assessed for risk in an objective way based on their own histories
so credit can be allocated more efficiently. Borrowing by high risk borrowers is also now controlled and the
market is opened for new low risk borrowers.
Lenders, consumers, businesses, government and central banks all benefit from Credit Bureaux. This is why
the World Bank, IFC and USAID organisations are all promoting and facilitating the development of efficient
and capable Credit Bureau services around the world.
The effectiveness of a Credit Bureau varies depending upon a number of factors including data availability,
data quality, operating ability and legislation. Supportive legislation and a sound technical infrastructure
are crucial to effective operation.
The services provided by a Credit Bureau expands from the basic credit report to extended financial infor-
mation, historical factors, and in many cases, can assist in tracing the debtor in the case of default (debt
collection).
In Namibia, the banks are charging high fees and interest rates because of the difficulties in assessing risk ,
and the unavailability of data , especially regarding the physical address of clients.
Dilemma collection of data
It must be noted that the collection of data must be controlled to ensure there is no abuse of privacy rights.
The CRIB database has been created with over 11,000 companies and 250,000 consumers. This data includes:
" Full names
" ID Number
" Postal address
" Physical address
" Telephone
" Employer records
(Only +/- 25,000 records are complete)
The creation, cleaning and mining of the data does meet standards of copyright, but such information must
be regulated. It must be kept in mind, if an individual has been able to create such a database, what
databases are being created and maintained by corporations in and outside of Namibia?
Namibian Situation
The databases available in Namibia range from

• private sector models that include information relating to your account details and histories, Multi-
choice, MTC, Sanlam, etc.; and

• public sector, such as Home Affairs ID section, Electoral Roll, Municipal accounts, etc.

At present, there is no legislation to:

1. control the information being held on a credit record;

2. avenue for corrections to be made; and

3. enforcing openness in regards the negative reply to credit application.

23
The legislature also has the opportunity to regulate a range of charges that banks may charge according to
the rating of individual consumers and businesses. (e.g. Basel in EU).
Proposal
There is need for the establishment of an economic database that includes both consumer and commercial
information. It is proposed that it should be a Private-Public Sector Partnership to protect the privacy
rights (data protection) of individuals.
The following will benefit from the establishment of the economic database:

• Small- and medium-sized enterprises

• Business (trading)

• Financial sector (credit providers)

• Government

• Regional and International trade

News 26 March 2009 (2009-03-26 20:35)

Hi, Milton here on Farm Okomitundu. I am still philosophising while writing my book - but had to ROFLOL
when I read ”Culling of Wildebeest applies to Beer”.
This week:
1. Government-owned Monopolies - the good, the bad...
2. Number portability
My thought for the week:
”If you want to make enemies, try to change something.” - Woodrow T.Wilson
Almost finished the first draft of the book. (The two articles above are part of it ;-0) Hopefully be at home
by Easter.
Regards
Milton
ROFLOL = Rolling On Floor, Laughing Out Loud

1.4 April

Keep you cell number - change your network (2009-04-12 17:54)

Number Portability
Most countries around the world have opened their telecommunications markets to competition, which
has accelerated the deployment of telecommunications services more quickly and cost-effectively than past
monopolies have achieved.
Some of these liberalisation efforts are being driven by regulations that call for number portability. For
example, the European Union (EU) Universal Service and Users’ Rights Directive (2002/22/EC), Article 30
- effective since July 2003 - imposes on all EU member states the following obligations:
Member states shall ensure that all subscribers of publicly available telephone services, including mobile
24
services, who so request can retain their number(s) independently of the undertaking providing the service:
” o In the case of geographic numbers, at a specific location; and
” o In the case of non-geographic numbers, at any location.
As consumers we have must have the choice of which service provider we want to use. Most cellular and
telephone subscribers however do not wish to lose their present number and therefore stay with the present
provider. One of the toughest responsibilities facing the regulators in the Namibian telecom markets involves
modernising our national numbering policies, numbering plans, and dialling plans.
We have to establish a numbering policy that provides a legal, legislative, and regulatory basis for competition.
Then, our regulator must decide on numbering and dialling schemes, services, technologies, and billing and
tariff methods that support its chosen numbering policy.
Lastly, it must also establish a fair, neutral office for numbering administration.
(I have heard the argument of the costs of implementing such a system this however is always only the
argument of the company with the biggest client base.)

Monopolies in Namibia (2009-04-12 17:55)

Monopolies - the good, the bad the &..

What are Monopolies?
Most people discuss monopolies and blame it for high allowing certain companies to get away with higher
prices or unsatisfactory service levels. The argument here is that if competition is allowed, this would auto-
matically mean lower prices or better service.
In the following text I look at the various types of monopolies, how they came to exist, and most importantly
is competition always a good thing?
There are various types of monopoly. Let us look at the most common types in Namibia.
- Selling monopolies - a company is the only supplier of a product and the customers must accept the prices
it fixes
- Producing monopolies - a company controls the manufacture or source of supply
- Trading monopolies - a company controls the marketing channel between the source and the customers
Furthermore, most monopolies are either national (countrywide) or local in geography.
There are three main ways in which a monopoly gets its power, either through the government (a political
monopoly); through economic control by a company of a natural resource; or through commercial monopoly
agreements between competitors.
A political monopoly comes about through a special government grant that forbids others to engage in this
business activity. In countries ruled by monarchs this was often in the form of crown patents giving exclusive
rights to carry out a certain business for example the collection of taxes. A second kind is the granted by a
patent for an invention and copyright on books or music. In this form, the government encourages invention,
research and writing by giving the full control of the ”intellectual property” to the inventor or writer. It is
recognized by all of us that such a monopoly is earned! Also the patent or copyright is limited in time, 14
years for patents and copyright for the lifetime of the writer. Another typical political monopoly is those
for the supply of electricity, water or telecommunications. This last kind is often granted to state companies
and encourages them to invest in areas that are helpful to the country and that normal capitalist (profit
making) companies might not invest in. This is why it is important to have a Universal Service Fund when
such monopoly rights are removed!
Economic monopolies come about when scarce natural resources come under the control of a company (or
companies) who agree on the price. In most cases such economic monopolies could have been prevented had
it been foreseen.
Trading monopolies come about when a company has ownership of subsidiaries that compete in the retail
market in competition with companies that purchase its services wholesale. They are thus able to ”share
25
costs”.
Government Policy on Monopolies
How does the man on the street react to monopolies or competition? Most of us agree that competition
is a good thing in business as it brings about lower prices. Yet the same people would agree with me, the
Zimbabweans are unfairly bringing down the wages or salaries we earn. This is where, dependent upon where
we stand in relation to the practice or industry, our standpoints are developed.
The question is then, when is it acceptable to have a monopoly. The answer must be: When it can be
regulated by Government.
Normally competition provides effective regulation. However, when a monopoly has too high prices, a com-
petitor might build its own infrastructure, for example its own electricity or telephone lines next to the
existing infrastructure. So we have to accept a policy of ”monopoly-accepted” as a necessary feature for
the public regulation of rates. We accept in Namibia that these industries are those that need expensive,
permanent and use public areas (roads, electricity lines, telephone lines, etc.).
Conclusion
Thus it is in the interest of country to have monopolies in respect of the development and maintenance of
the infrastructure. However, competition must be allowed in the provision of services that use it. Thus, to
prevent the third type of monopoly, namely a trading monopoly, we cannot allow these state monopolies
from selling directly to the public.
To use but one example, Telecom should become two separate companies. One, the owner of the physical
infrastructure should continue to be the partner of government to ensure the roll-out of access to all Namib-
ians (including receiving government funding where necessary). The second company must be a commercial
company using the infrastructure at the same prices as its competitors and being able to sell directly to the
commercial and individual customer.
For further reading see: ”Modern Economic Problems” - Frank Albert Fetter, Professor of Economics, Prince-
ton University, 1916

Search only Namibian websites (2009-04-12 18:02)

Hi, how do I search only Namibian websites for some information?

Well for my research I kept getting too many other non-Namibian information. I created a Google
Search Engine applications just for Namibian websites: http://www.google.com/coop/cse?cx=001210-
031332072355124:2xvxaxbcffq
Thought you might enjoy it. Let me know if it is of any use. {Feel free to become a contributor of websites
too - its for all of us.)
Thought for the week:
”Whenever I found out anything remarkable, I have thought it my duty to put down my discovery on paper,
so that all ingenious people might be informed thereof. - Antonie van Leeuwenhoek
Kind regards
Milton

P.S. You can alos see the searh engine on my website: www.nambiz.co.cc

God’s messages (2009-04-12 19:06)

An advertising company in USA put these up on billboards and buses. They really made me think twice
this Easter.
26
1. Let’s Meet At My House Sunday Before the Game - God
2. C’mon Over And Bring The Kids - God
3. What Part of ”Thou Shalt Not...” Didn’t You understand? - God
4. We Need To Talk - God
5. Keep Using My Name in Vain And I’ll Make Rush Hour Longer - God
6. Loved The Wedding, Invite Me To The Marriage - God
7. That ”Love Thy Neighbor” Thing, I Meant It. - God
8. I Love You ... I Love You ... I Love You ... - God
9. Will The Road You’re On Get You To My Place? - God
10. Follow Me. - God
11. Big Bang Theory, You’ve Got To Be Kidding. - God
12. My Way Is The Highway. - God
13. Need Directions? - God
14. You Think It’s Hot Here? - God
15. Tell The Kids I Love Them. - God
16. Need a Marriage Counselor? I’m Available. - God
17. Have You Read My #1 Best Seller? There Will Be A Test. - God
Lastly, I was thinking about how people read the Bible a whole lot more when they get older. Then it
dawned on me they were cramming for their finals.

Love Freedom Profile (2009-04-13 20:37)

Got a new friend on Facebook. Loved her profile:

”Happiness is Contagious! Let’s make this world a better place by choosing to be happy and making the
people around us happy. Let s spread the Love and the Good Vibes!
Happiness is our birthright as human beings. There is no doubt that life can be hard living in today s
world is not always easy especially with the overwhelming amount of negativity around us.
But happiness is a choice. Make a conscious decision to be happy. You can be happy right now. It s all up
to you.
Be a steward of happiness and good vibes! Do a random act of kindness everyday. It doesn’t need to be big;
it could be a small deed or a gesture that will brighten up someone’s day!
" Hold the door for someone
" Compliment a friend
" Let in a merging motorist
" Carry groceries for a senior
" Say good morning to a co-worker
" Phone an old friend
" Bring cupcakes to the office
" & Or just give someone a friendly smile
There are countless possibilities! The smallest good deed is better than hundreds of good intentions without
action.
START TODAY!
”Be the CHANGE that you want to see in the world” - Gandhi

27
On being Coloured (2009-04-14 19:15)

I am a Coloured. I am a coloured because my parents raised me as such, and because of the environment
around me. Most importantly, I can answer my young daughters, (who were not born during Apartheid),
when they ask me, Daddy what am I?
I can laugh loudest and longest when I see a caricature of a coloured woman gossiping with her neighbour
over the fence it happens in my family even though now it is over the Cellphone, and sometimes in the
doctor s waiting room.
The next observation by people is obviously the one about the typical coloured. It is either the LBS, lieg,
brag en steel (lie cheat and steal) or the drinking, smoking drugs, swearing and loafing around and most
commonly having babies at a young age. I even had a white young lady tell me that I should not wear
baggy clothes the way the coloureds do . DUH! And let s not forget the one thing that carries over from
one generation to another our love of going to nightclubs and just hanging ( nee daddy, ons hang net ).
These attributes are found across all cultures. The fact that as a group we are more tolerant, and probably
make more fun of it ourselves does not mean that all coloureds are like this. These are activities which are
often brought about by the political, social, economical and technological environment (PEST factors).
I believe the perceptions of a drinking and marijuana smoking culture has its origins in the origins of our own
nationhood . Most of our forefathers were the offspring of (male) European settlers who settled in the cape
and their Bantu slaves (female). These bastards were rejected by their mothers family and not recognised
by their fathers.
It is a historical fact that many workers were paid with wine rather than money. Now consider being rejected
by both sides of your family and paid in alcohol. What is your worth as a person? Are you worth 5 litres of
wine?
This cycle is obviously degrading and leads to a very low self esteem. This leads in turn to low confidence
levels in your worth and that of your family. This is the big challenge facing the Coloureds with which we
still struggle today.
So, those who do drink, do drugs, swear and loaf around (in all cultures) are really broken people who have
not realised their own true worth in life. So let s leave the stereotyping out.
So if we are not that, what are we as a tribe?
Most of us (me included) has lost touch with what we are as a coloured tribe in Namibia, and the broader
Southern Africa. Most importantly we must accept our history and be proud of what our forefathers have to
done to get us to where we are today. It is time to stop using the terminology of we are so-called coloureds .
We are Namibian Coloureds proud to be working to a better future for our family, tribe and country![1]

1. http://www.bloghints.com/

Chinese a good thing for Namibia (2009-04-16 10:08)

Many Namibians have expressed alarm at the number of Chinese workers and business people entering
Namibia. The most often heard complaint is that the Chinese are taking work away from Namibian workers
because they are willing to work for too little and much harder even over weekends .
Historically since the 1960 s, SWAPO has been a close ally of the Communist Party during the struggle for
liberation. After Independence, these ties are still very good. Since 1990 China has provided more than N $
1,2 billion in concessional and interest free loans. A further US $ 100 million credit line signed in 2007 has
not yet been utilised.
Looking at the trade statistics, Namibia already imports 25 % of its products (2006), and the rate is growing
at 53 % per year. (These numbers refer to countries other than SACU members.)
In my opinion the relationship with China is beneficial to our country. One of the most important things we
28
can learn from the Chinese is the ability to work. I believe that rather than complain at the willingness of
the Chinese worker, we should emulate their example.
As for the traders that have sprung up all over, this has been a good thing for our economy. It has increased
the spending power of our consumers, provided jobs for our workers, and many of these entrepreneurs are
marrying into our community. All of these have very beneficial long-term benefits. We must however guard
against the creation of china towns that will lead to segregation rather than integration.
I would further propose we invite the Chinese Government to open a Confucius Institute in Namibia so we
can learn more about their cultures, and also have the opportunity to learn the Chinese language. It is
a good opportunity for Namibia to offer our country as gateway for Chinese investment in the continent,
specifically into the Southern Africa Customs Union.

Me and bad debts (2009-04-23 13:53)

In 2004 I returned from Germany and started up my company, NamBizDotCom, which is registered as a
Close Corporation. I was working on two contracts at the time involving SME s. The first was in cooperation
with SMEs Compete and included a trip to South Africa and Angola to look for possible partners in these
countries. The second contract, was for the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and was to complete
the SME Impact Assessment Survey for 2004.
Unfortunately, my father was declared disabled and unable to continue working. He was 54 and no longer
able to generate an income. This started a financial calamity that still haunts me till today.
Firstly, the bank, FNB, passed on the insurance claim to Metropolitan Insurance who did not want to accept
his disability and therefore allow for his insurance to cover the cost of the home loan. The buck was passed
between the two institutions and this delay meant my father was in arrears on his home loan. The bank
therefore duly put his house up for auction to recoup their loss, and advertised this in the local newspaper.
As is my duty, I immediately went to my Father s aid. After all, my two little brothers (aged 8 and 2 years
old) would not have a roof over their heads if the bank and insurance giants were left unchallenged. Suffice
to say, after a year of travelling between Rehoboth where my Father s house was, and the bank head office
in Windhoek, we were successful in getting the bank to settle his home loan through the insurance claim. (I
must add tribute to the late Lazarus Ipangelwa, then MD of First National Bank, who allowed us a chance
to put our case to the right person at the bank.)
In the meantime, my own business had closed and I was responsible for the debts to the amounts of +/- N $
8,000 to Trip Travel, and +/- 20,000 to Institute for Public Policy Research. This second debt had incurred
legal and other sundry charges and was submitted to the courts as an amount of over N $ 25,000 which is
the threshold for admittance to the High Court rather than the Magistrate s Court.
So, I returned to Windhoek in January 2006 to face the two debtors, the one in the Magistrate s Court and
the other in the High Court. I take full responsibility for these debts and have attempted to pay the debts
back through monthly payments of N $ 200 and N $ 500 respectively. Unfortunately, these debts are also
listed on my credit record, which is accessed by most employers today and I found it difficult to find gainful
employment after my return to Windhoek. Since then, I have spent three years as an hourly-paid lecturer
and working part-time in an NGO.
Let me state for the record, If I could, I would pay the debt of immediately! However, I have not been paid
a salary since April 2008 and have survived by consultancy work. Perhaps with my next job I will be able
to settle these debts once and for all.
I do not wish to regale you with the arsenal available to the lawyers, or on the lack of information forthcoming
from their offices of how far your repayment is coming. Needless to say, I will welcome a law that helps a
debtor in relationship to these educated and learned professionals.
On this matter, I wish to suggest a Consumer Ombudsman for citizens who have dealings with lawyers. On
more than one occasion I have found an invoice for services from a law firm that has no basis in reality. It is
29
impossible to fight with a lawyer about any of their charges, after all they are better armed with the letter
of the law.
BTW - all details about the debt and the creditors and lawyers are public knowledge and printed in various
local newspapers.

Finished my book! (2009-04-24 16:34)

Almost end of April 2009 and just finished my book, ”[1]Namibia’s Future -Smile my beloved Land”. Not
sure if anybody will read it, but you never know;-). You can get a copy at by clicking the link.
The next few lines were scribbled as I was printing a hardcopy:
A swan song
To much too drink
Too much too think
Thank you all
But back to the mall;
This had to be done
I wish it could be someone
Who cares a little bit more
Someone who does not feel so sore;
But this is my swan song:
For better or worse,
Thank you one and all,
My curse is not suffered alone.
1. http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=F.174caa93-f6e4-43b4-883d-2c4d315b317b

1.5 June

Having children is not easy (2009-06-05 17:32)

Somedays I feel lika a character on an American sitcom, something like the father on Fresh Prince or the
Huckstables. Completely past my sell-by-date! Don’t get me wrong, I love my children and wish I coud do
more for them. The problem is that often I cannot do more.
More than ever I appreciate now the institution of marriage. At least you have an ally and someone with
whom you can discuss the problems and way to tackle them. It is also unfortunate we do not have support
groupd for divorced fathers?[1]
1. javascript:void(0)

Being thankful in the face of adversity (2009-06-12 15:46)

I was once again reminded today of how we sometimes cannot see the forest for the trees. Sometimes our
own problems are so big, we do not appreciate how a little kindness or thoughtfulness from our side can
greatly improve somebody’s life.
The problem that I am presently facing is the lack of cashflow - getting the money that I have worked for to
30
get into my pocket. A dear friend sent me a movie showing a child too hungry even too eat! AND I am the
one complaining.
So today my prayer is:
”Thank you for reminding me of all the blessings I have received. May I never forget to offer my assistance
to others.”

1.6 July

Unionise the ICT / Data workers of Namibia (2009-07-20 17:14)

Employees and their Unions

Workers are often unskilled, semi-literate and the working conditions allow for very little opportunity to be-
come informed of their rights. Because of the nature of our independence struggle, most workers are however
aware that the unions, through their affiliation to SWAPO, are an intimidating bargainer to employers.
The worker in Namibia, who pays his or her membership dues, expects protection, better pay, better working
conditions, more benefits and a sense of belonging.
IT Workers
In the modern world the distinction between white-collar and blue-collar workers are not the same as they
used to be. This is particularly so in the Information Technology sector.
The IT sector was previously considered white-collar, in that many of the employees were working as software
engineers and programmers. Today, many of the IT workers are busy with the backbone or infrastructure as
well as the data input and manipulation.
The sector needs to become organised into an ICT Employers Federation and an ICT Workers Union. Such a
Union must ensure educational standards, professional qualifications and be able to publish regular industry
wage and salary scales.
Most employers would argue that a unionised workforce is not desirable. Through my experience while
working as secretary for the ICT Alliance, I have learnt to differ.
An organisation such as the ICT Alliance is representing the Namibian employers in the field. They, as
volunteers, have the interest of their Namibian company or institution at heart and are a lobby group for
further Namibianisation of the industry. In the tri-partite labour environment we have in Namibia, they
therefore represent the employers of Namibian owned companies.
The data workers need to become organised as they are not only negotiating with Namibian companies, but
more and more with international technology firms. As a Union they must:
" be able to negotiate from a position of strength;
" ensure standards of qualifications;
" inform members of innovations and technology updates; and
" provide health and pension plans.
Organised labour is a must if we want to improve the economy of our country.
Unions today
The Union movement in Namibia has seen many changes since Independence. The functionaries are be-
coming associated more closely with the SWAPO party, many are also on the election list. In addition, the
Namibia Union of National is becoming a profitable business.
The following from the website of Bank Windhoek:
Nam-mic Financial Services Holdings (NFS) is the Group s strategic empowerment partner. NFS holds
investments in Capricorn Investment Holdings (7 %), Welwitschia Nam-mic Insurance Brokers (20 %), Con-
solidated Financial Services (5 %), Capricorn Life Assurance Company (25 %), Santam Namibia (10 %) and
Corporate Benefit Consulting (35 %). The NFS subsidiary company, Nam-mic Financial Solutions offers
31
micro finance to union members in partnership with Bank Windhoek.
... The remainder of 72.5 % (of shares in NFS) is held directly or indirectly through investment companies of
the National Union of Namibian workers, Mineworkers Union of Namibia, Namibia Public Workers Union,
Namibia Food and Allied Workers Union, Namibia National Teachers Union, Namibia Farm Workers Union
and the Namibia Transport and Allied Workers Union.
As for Nam-mic Financial Solutions the micro-lender:
Alacrity will hold a 35 % stake in the company, while the balance will be controlled by the people of
Namibia through the shareholdings of Nam-mic Investment Holding Company (35 %), Namibian Public
Worker’s Union (20 %) and Namibian Food and Allied Worker’s Union (10 %).
These are a betrayal of the labour union movement ideals and can constitute a real danger to their continued
existence. After all, who now represents the employees of these businesses in wage negotiations?
There must be a clear differentiation of the activities of unions and the use of union funds to purchase and
manage business.

Corruption (2009-07-25 12:41)

Corruption is bad for any country. It prevents growth by diverting funds, scaring foreign investment and
encourages educated citizens to leave so as not to be also considered part of a corrupt state. The corrupt
allocation of natural resources will lead to the depletion of these resources to the detriment of all citizens.
It breaks the trust between the people and its government. Most importantly is puts in doubt the ability of
the government, civil service and all politicians. In other words it endangers our democracy and the rule of
law.
Study proves corruption is less profitable
Not only do you get punished by God for corruption, now we know you get punished on earth too , said
one of the readers of a recent study on corruption.
A recent study on ethics in business shows that companies that have high ethical standards and behaviour
are more profitable than their competitors. Suppliers and customers alike prefer working with a company
where the rules are clear and business decisions cannot be influenced by employees.
Most politicians bend the laws of the land and steal money or solicit bribes because they need the funds to
support networks of patronage. Others do it in order to reward their nearest and dearest or to maintain a
lavish lifestyle when their political lives are over. A solution is to ensure that upon retirement, a politician
is able to sustain their lifestyle through a regular pension payout. Of course, effective policing and long jail
terms also provide deterrents.
Effective Programme against Corruption
To be effective, an anti-corruption programme must:

1. Persecute corrupt high profile public officials in public and private institutions, and even multinational
companies. (the so-called big fish )

2. Investment in educating the public and government officials to encourage civic pride ;

3. Liberalising and deregulating the economy. The less red tape or licensing procedures, the less the
likelihood of corrupt practices to facilitate business .

4. Strengthening of the institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Commission, Police, Customs, the Courts
and the Tax Authorities.
32
The best solution to corruption remains a policy of no secrets. This means free, accessible, and available
information circulated and discussed by opposition parties, free press, trade unions, business organisations
and NGO s. Without this, the fight against corruption is doomed to failure. With them it stands a chance.

1.7 August

Foundation of Education (2009-08-05 11:20)

A child educated only at school is an uneducated child. - George Santayana

The foundation of education is found at the home. The traditions of culture, respect for the elderly, respect
for the property of others and other moral values are part of the environment within which our children grow
up. In our modern world however, more and more of the responsibility of the education of our children is
expected to be at school.
Our constitution guarantees primary education. I propose we introduce a further two year pre-primary
care for our children. During these two formative years, children will be given the opportunity to practise
their motor skills through sport, and provide an opportunity to learn the basics of music. Not all families
can presently provide this necessary training, which includes teaching a child to concentrate, and it must
therefore be the duty of the state to give the tools necessary to prepare the child for primary school.

(2009-08-06 11:16)

Education in the ICT (internet and telecommunications) is a must for each and every citizen of Namibia as
we progress into the future. Every child attending school should be IT literate by the end of primary school.
All children must have the equivalent of the Master in Microsoft Office (MCAS) or International Drivers
Licence (ICDL).
The government must put in place an incentive scheme to encourage companies to invest 1 % of their turnover
on basic computer literacy skills (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, emails and internet). A
possible tax rebate can be offered if a company can prove computer literacy levels at all levels, especially of
unskilled workers. Retrenchment packages should also include a computer training component.

Influence of teachers - in memory of Heidi (Persendt) Japhta (2009-08-07 13:30)

I have been asked on occasion to give an inspirational talk to learners at award functions or graduations. The
most memorable, and first, of these was for me when I was asked to deliver a speech at the Academic Awards
of Dawid Bezuidenhout Secondary School My wife was also a teacher at the school, (and I had finished my
schooling there - under the late Heidi Japtha, nee Persendt) and had encouraged me to accept this honour.
The following is the gist of the speech I gave:
My mother was music and accounting teacher and my wife is an accounting and information sciences teacher.
Many of the important people in my life were school teachers.
One of the most important lessons I learnt from a teacher was during my Standard 6 (Grade 7) year when
I was 14 years old. Mr. McKelvin was my Geography teacher and till today, I can still distinguish the
differences in clouds because he made us lay on our back in the middle of the playground and then pointed
out the various types. This was his lesson about life:
33
 Sometime we find ourselves in a conversation and say something really stupid. Something like rubber is
made from oil (rather than from a tree). Now a week or two later, we find ourselves among the same group
of people. We remember the mistake we made so we are too frightened to say anything. So we miss the
opportunity to participate because of our previous mistake.
Well, you are wrong. The other people also made mistakes, and they are too busy remembering their own
mistakes to remember yours!
This has made me overcome one of the problems I believe we all have, admitting when we have made mistakes
and more importantly learning to laugh at ourselves.
The next life lesson I remember from a teacher was about asking God for something . I had a successful
career, happy family and most everything money could buy. During this time I prayed to God to help me
establish my own business. But, instead of God answering my prayers, I found myself losing some of the
wonderful things I had. One of my mentors saw how dejected I was and asked, what s the matter? Upon
hearing my story, he replied, Oh, Milton. God is just making space in your hands for the next present.
Your hands were just too full!
So whenever I face adversity and see my possessions becoming less, I know it is God making more space for
that big gift he has prepared for me!

Loss of respect for the elderly (2009-08-13 13:30)

We are all going to grow old!

”Older people are the custodians of our traditions, our heritage and our cultures. They reflect our past
and are the mirrors of our future. They have the right to a healthy, productive life, to live in a caring
environment and to be treated with respect.” - South African Minister of Social Development at the United
Nations Second World Assembly on Ageing in Madrid.
As human beings were are the only conscious animal that is aware that one day our own existence will end.
This is scary and many of us prefer to ignore this through denial and repression. However, we only know
this because we have a memory of those who have passed before us.
Our memories are not only there to remind us of the bad things (such as death), but also plays an important
role in our development and survival. In the wild, it is the old, wily Kudu who lives the longest because he
has learnt from experience and retains the memories.
In all cultures, the history of a tribe, as well as the memories of past calamities was preserved only in the
minds of the old people. Thus it was important before the written word, for all cultures to remember and
pass on the knowledge of life saving information. The young thus stayed with in close proximity to their
elders, and made effort to look after them in their old age. This is also one of the important foundations in
worship of the forefathers.
Earlier than in other cultures, Europeans memories have been passed on to the next through the written
word. This has been an important reason for their world dominance. The less reliance needed on the old,
led in turn to smaller family units and inevitably accumulation of power and wealth in the hands of the few.
It also led to younger family members being able to hold their elders to account for their past actions and
decisions.
As the various cultures throughout the world have become civilised, they have gained the knowledge of the
existing written word (mostly from the Bible) and often lost their own culture and memories before it is
preserved in a written form.
However, since the advent of the World Wide Web in 1994, more and more of our memories, and thus our
past, are available to all. And to add injury to insult, it is the young who are able to access the Web the
easiest. With this vast library of information available at their fingertips, it is becoming easier for the young
to judge their elders.
Our elders have lost the advantage of being the memory banks of our culture and history.
34
In a similar vein, earlier communication between the generations occurred at night after the evening meal.
During the story telling (imparting of past wisdoms), the young were to be seen not heard . This was an
important gesture of respect for the old, and a way of ensuring your own survival if you should get into an
unfamiliar and deadly situation.
Our modern technology now means we all have cellular telephones. However, it is often the younger person
doing the calling. The purpose is often still the same to get something, whether information or to request
money.
Now they cut the elder short during the normal greetings (a sign of respect) because my credit is going to
run out so listen quickly!
We need a law to protect our elderly. Such a law must include:
" The right of older persons to live safely and without fear of abuse;
" the assumption that older persons are competent to make informed choices and decisions about their lives;
" the right of older persons to be treated fairly and be valued independently of their economic contribution;
and
" the right of older persons to have access to employment, health, welfare, transportation, social assistance
and other support systems without regard to economic status.
The law must also provide a mechanism punish abuse of the elderly.

Effective combating of crime (2009-08-18 10:48)

As quoted from Commission of Enquiry headed by Justice Brian O Linn

Most Namibians agree that the administration of justice has fallen into disrepute and that the main causes
are, inter alia:
The laws, interpretation of the laws and application of the Constitution: the emphasis on rights without
any emphasis on responsibilities; on the rights of the accused and convicted persons, but not the rights of
the victims and law-abiding citizens; the unacceptable high rate of criminality and unacceptable low rate of
literacy in the official language in the Namibian Police Force; generally the lack of a culture of professionalism,
which includes pride in the profession, dedication and motivation; failure to put in place a culture of merit
and non-discrimination in the place of racist criteria; the inexperience, lack of the necessary qualifications
and/or training incompetence, physical fitness; insufficient equipment, vehicles and remuneration; the failure
to incorporate magistrates into the judiciary in regard to appointment, control, professionalism and ethics;
the inexperience and inadequate qualifications and training of some prosecutors and even some magistrates;
insufficient courts and personnel to do the job; lack of proper organisation; the delaying tactics of legal
practitioners for the defence; the increase in crime levels due to many different causes and problems some
of which are insoluble; lack of the necessary consistent leadership by many leading persons and institutions;
outright abuse of power and corruption by too many of those in positions of power, trust and leadership;
undermining of the rule of law; abuse of power and the consequent development of a culture of dishonesty,
lawlessness, criminality and despondency.
& Policemen should be appointed and promoted on the basis of education, ability, experience, expertise,
performance, character, integrity and motivation.
& there is a widespread misinterpretation that freedom means license to do whatever one likes without
responsibility for these actions or the consequences. This interpretation extends to the misuse, vandalism
and theft of public property and private property alike.
Successful arrest and conviction must operate as a deterrent and the State should, within the limits of
its undoubtedly constrained resources, seek to deter serious crime by adequate remuneration for the police
force; by incentives to improve their training and skill; by augmenting their numbers in key areas; and by
facilitating their legitimacy in the perception of the communities in which they work
Recommendations include making a highly qualified and professional group of security officers more effective
35
in supplementing police inadequacies regarding the preparing of the statements of complaints and witnesses
in criminal cases in which they become involved in the course of their professional duties.

Bring back forced labour (2009-08-18 10:50)

Crime is a problem. It stretches from petty theft of cellular phones to murdering your own wife. Sometimes
it seems as if our Independence has given us freedoms because the punishments have been taken away. The
punishments done away with include corporal punishment in schools, the death penalty, and forced labour
amongst prisoners. More importantly the shame that went with the crime is no longer there.
Bring back forced labour, the Namibian Constitution Article 9(3)(a) allows for forced labour required in
consequence of a sentence or order of a Court . Allow the prisoner to reimburse the victim and society for
the wrongs they have committed.

Loving a prostitute (2009-08-21 12:18)

For a period of two years I lived in Ausspannplatz close to the police headquarters. This area was previously
the place travellers would stop and leave their wagons before entering Windhoek. ( Aus spann means to
let the cattle free to graze.) There is a small park and two traffic circles in the area. This is the downtown
of the city.
As in most cities and towns around the world, the downtown has become a night life area filled with bars
and casinos. Of course, where there is money and alcohol, there are also prostitutes and drugs.
When my forefathers (the Plaatjies family) came to Windhoek, they had a business in the area opposite
where the Ministry of Transport and Works is today. Not surprisingly, I found some of the people still
remember my family in the area.
But it is the night life that was the most interesting. The area starts to come alive with the night people
starting around 16H00. The first ladies start appearing as their customers pass by before heading to their
respective homes. Alcohol is being bought for the night ahead as it is cheaper from the bottle store than at
the bar. The men in the area are either boyfriends , (who share the income with their girlfriends), drug
peddlers mostly marijuana, or petty thieves.
I have spent many an interesting evening with the people of the area and have never felt threatened by
anyone. However, life and death are ever present. This can be through knife fights, being shot by the
robbery victim or police, or while asleep on the railway lines.
During this period I met a young lady who was living in the area and we became more than just friends.
I later moved to another part of Windhoek and she moved with me. However, this part of town and the
people in the area were too part of her life. We later broke up and she returned to spending her day and
nights in Ausspannplatz. Unfortunately, she became sick and as it was untreated it led to pneumonia. She
passed away three days after being admitted to the hospital.
Elmarie Motswana was only 24 years old.
Her story began when she was 13 years old. Her mother and stepfather worked as labourers on a commercial
farm close to Mariental. She became pregnant and had a baby boy at this age. Barely literate and with no
hope, she moved to Windhoek to get another chance at schooling. Within a few months the lights of the
city had bedazzled her and she went missing from her family s house.
She created a new history for herself and over the next ten years she became Elmarie Motswana. She had
played soccer at school and had gone with the school team to Brazil. Her mother was a rich lady from
Katutura, but she hardly went home because her stepfather did not like her. And so it went on with each
36
passing year and less and less of the true Elmarie stayed behind. Only after her passing, was I able to piece
together some of her past.

White and Black Economic Empowerment (2009-08-25 17:37)

Namibia has gone through various political changes over the past two centuries. One thing however is
always constant. Once the political change occurs, there is a realisation that political independence means
very little without economic ownership change. When the English ruled over Southern Africa they had
the economic might. The Afrikaner took over and had to create state institutions such as the Eerste
Nasionale Ontwikkelings Korporasie (ENOK or First National Development Corporation) to allow Afrikaner
businessmen to get a share of the economic pie. The also created other institutions that should be supported
by their people to become as powerful as the English ones, for example banks and insurance companies
(Sanlam, Santam, etc.).
In much the same way, the black people of Namibia need to become participants in the economy. The first
efforts were made in the early 1990 s to unite the two chambers of commerce, namely the Windhoek CCI and
Windhoek Business Chamber. This resulted in the Namibia National Chamber of Commerce and Industry,
the predecessor of the present NCCI.
This was one of the most challenging times in my working life. The mistrust of decades had to be plastered
over for the sake of the country and our newly created democracy. We succeeded.
BUT, we only plastered over the problem. The black majority is still not participating in the meaningful
way promised by the politicians. Or for that matter, the way the previous English and Afrikaner political
movements allowed their voters to prosper.

1.8 September

SharePoint is the next thing you need (2009-09-01 11:45)

Twenty years ago most of us did not use word processing or spreadsheets. Today it is compulsory for all of
us to be computer literate and probably be a super user with documents and spreadsheets.
WELL, the next thing we must be able to is to collaborate with one another. A SharePoint Web site allows
you to easily collaborate with colleagues from across the hall and around the world. The ability to create
knowledge bases, online surveys, discussion boards, and chats can help produce, organize, and distribute
project information.
What is SharePoint
Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 is an integrated suite of server capabilities that can help improve
organizational effectiveness by providing comprehensive content management and enterprise search, accel-
erating shared business processes, and facilitating information-sharing across boundaries for better business
insight. Additionally, this collaboration and content management server provides IT professionals and de-
velopers with the platform and tools they need for server administration, application extensibility, and
interoperability.
There are three levels of users, namely:
1. End users / Site Administrators
2. System Administrators / Architects
3. Developers / Architects
In September and October I am focussing on SharePoint for all three levels of users.
In my next blog I highlight some of the areas of work in SharePoint.
37
Overview of SharePoint capabilities (2009-09-10 13:27)

The capabilities of Office SharePoint Server 2007 are focused in six areas:
" Collaboration
" Portals and personalization
" Search
" Enterprise Content Management
" Business processes and forms
" Business intelligence
Collaboration
You can use a SharePoint site to share information and get your work done more efficiently. A SharePoint
site offers workspaces and tools that your team can use to track projects, coordinate schedules, and collabo-
ratively create and edit documents.
Improve team productivity by using a SharePoint site
You can use a site to store routine information for a single department or short-term information for a special
project that spans several departments. By using a collaborative workspace such as a team site, your team
can become more efficient and more productive.
Manage projects more efficiently
You can use a site to manage projects and coordinate tasks and deadlines among team members. The
Project Tasks list template includes a Gantt chart view where you can see task relationships and project
status. Your team can coordinate their work with shared calendars, alerts, and notifications. You can also
connect a calendar on your SharePoint site to your calendar in Microsoft Office Outlook 2007, where you
can view and update it just as you do your personal calendar.
Create, review, and publish documents
Groups of people can create, review, and edit documents collaboratively on a SharePoint site. You can use
document libraries to store and manage important documents, or use Document Workspace sites to coordi-
nate the development of specific documents. Slide Libraries are a great place to share and reuse Microsoft
Office PowerPoint 2007 slides in a central location. You can take document libraries offline in Office Outlook
2007 to enable people to view and edit documents while they are not connected to the network.
Capture and share community knowledge
You can use a team site to capture and share collective team knowledge or important information. Teams
can create and capture community knowledge or document internal processes in a wiki. You can use surveys
or discussions to gather information or encourage dialog, and then share your findings in a blog. Team
members can use alerts or Really Simple Syndication (RSS) to track updates to your sites.
Portals and personalization
You can use portal sites to work collaboratively and access the people, information, and business applications
that you need to do your job. Office SharePoint Server 2007 includes features that organizations can use to
personalize the portal site for individuals or groups of users
Search
You can use search on a SharePoint site to help you find information, files, Web sites, and people. For more
information about using search, click the following links.
Enterprise Content Management
Office SharePoint Server 2007 provides powerful Enterprise Content Management (ECM) features for cre-
ating, managing, and storing content throughout an enterprise. You can use workflows (workflow: The
automated movement of documents or items through a specific sequence of actions or tasks related to a busi-
ness process. Workflows can be used to consistently manage common business processes, such as document
approval or review.) to help manage the process of creating, reviewing, publishing, and even managing the
38
content that your organization creates.
Document management
Document management capabilities can help you consolidate content from multiple locations into a Docu-
ment Center, which is a centrally managed repository that has consistent categorization.
Records management
Integrated records management capabilities can help you store and protect business records in their final
state.
Web content management
Web content management capabilities enable people to publish Web content with an easy-to-use content
authoring tool and a built-in approval process.
Business process and forms
Office SharePoint Server 2007 provides many features that can help you integrate and streamline your busi-
ness processes. You can create browser-based forms and gather data from organizations that do not use
Microsoft Office InfoPath 2007. Workflows can streamline the cost of coordinating common business pro-
cesses, such as project approval or document review, by managing and tracking the tasks involved with those
processes
Business intelligence
Business intelligence is the process of aggregating, storing, analyzing, and reporting on business data to
support informed business decisions. Office SharePoint Server 2007 provides a number of tools that can help
you extract data from a variety of sources and present that data in ways that facilitate analysis and decision
making.

Create an Internet Action Group for Namibia (2009-09-10 13:28)

Did you know?

" The fifth biggest country in the world is Facebook. That s right, a country that only exists on the
Internet has over 200 million people sharing their thoughts, photographs, birthdays, love lives, interests and
causes with one another. In the Nation of Facebook your every thought is shared with all your friends at
once. They can indicate if they like it, or make a comment. In addition, you or a friend can write on the
wall if you wish to send each other private messages. The photographs area allows you to upload any of
your photos and share them instantly with those you know. The best feature is the ability to tag a friend,
and everyone they know will be informed that a photo has been loaded.
" In the Twitter application an actor, Ashton Kutcher, beat the news company CNN to having a million
users following their twitting (Twitter is a service that allows you to send and post SMS messages to a
network of contacts.) Kutcher had challenged CNN to the Twitter race, saying he would donate 10,000
mosquito bed nets to charity for World Malaria Day in late April if he beat CNN, and 1,000 if he lost. CNN
agreed to do the same. ”It’s a turning point in media. He’s one person who uses a free media platform to
reach a large audience. And that really hasn’t been done before,” Cherwenka said. ”He didn’t spend a penny
on this. And that’s kind of the point of any kind of social activity on the Web.”
" Digital divide is shrinking through the use of mobile technologies, in countries such as South Africa, Nigeria
and Namibia especially in mobile telephony. More than half of the Namibian population has a cellular phone.
" ICTs are technologies that enable us to receive, disseminate and share information and knowledge as well
as to communicate they are the foundation of the Information Society and Knowledge Economy. The
Polytechnic of Namibia is a mirror site for most of the information libraries across the world and a key node
for connecting Namibia to the information highway.
" Telecommunication is technically defined as the transportation of information from point A to B. Telecom
has a fibre optic cable covering almost all of Namibia a fully digital transmission network (6500 km of
Fibre Routes).
39
What does all this mean for Namibia?
Our challenges are:
" Nationally the imbalances in basic infrastructure, education, health and government services
" Globally the technological advances far outpace our national development
Poverty does not only refer to lack of income, but also includes:
" the deprivation of basic capabilities;
" the deprivation of information needed for meaningful participation in society
" and lack of access to:
" education
" healthcare
" natural resources
" employment
" land and credit
" political participation
" services
" infrastructure, etc.
Neither investment in ICTs or access alone is sufficient for development to occur, ICTs must also mediate
the delivery of useful services and civic interaction that contribute to the economic and social well being of
the community.
Creating a better future, Today
Namibia can use the latest technology to the benefit of all its residents. The attitude to education which is
presently geared to becoming an industrial country, must be changed to a system where knowing where the
information is available is more important than having the information in your head. This means moving
from our present agricultural society to a knowledge-base society within five years.
This leapfrogging into a knowledge-based society can be assisted by creating an ICT Action Group (IAG)
reporting directly to the President. The IAG should consist of four staff members, of which two should be
young people under the age of twenty-five. (The (male and female) staff member should each have software
programming skills and should also participate in gaming leagues such as Starcraft. In addition, they should
have a minimum competency in the number of words they can SMS per minute on their cellular phone.)
The objectives of the IAG:
" Advise the President and Cabinet on ICT.
" Ensure ICT capability of all members of the Cabinet and their staff.
" Create a Government Ministerial scorecard on Information and Communication Technologies. This includes
a baseline survey of computer equipment and civil servant skills, as well as monitoring the information
availability over government websites.
" Oversee the creation of a central register for Namibia.
" Ability to declare certain areas to be under-serviced and secure funds from the universal service fund to
roll-out infrastructure
" Identify international trends such as Facebook and Chat with the view of encouraging local sites that are
able to provide the same service. A social network site for people located in Namibia (in other words within
a national local area network) is within the capability of the Polytechnic or UNAM. This will encourage
innovation and access to information.
" Promote local content development to enhance the National Identity.
" Host free internet websites for any resident of Namibia.
The funding for the Internet Action Group will come directly from the Universal Fund that is contributed
to by the telecommunications companies in Namibia.

40
What is love? (2009-09-24 15:27)

”Love is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake and then subsides. And when it subsides you
have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have become so entwined together that
it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. Love is not breathlessness, it is
not excitement, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion. That is just being ”in love” which
any of us can convince ourselves we are. Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away,
and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. Your mother and I had it, we had roots that grew towards
each other underground, and when all the pretty blossom had fallen from our branches we found that we
were one tree and not two.”
-St. Augustine

1.9 October

History of the Namibian Coloureds (2009-10-06 11:13)

”History is the witness that testifies to the passing of time; it illumines reality, vitalizes memory, provides
guidance in daily life and brings us tidings of antiquity.” - Cicero (106 BC - 43 BC), Pro Publio Sestio
For the past three months I have once again been staying Khomasdal, in what was the old coloured area of
Windhoek. It has been really fun meeting up with some of my old friends, especially when we take part in
the coloured sport of drinking. ;-)
I am staying directly behind my Grandmother’s house, which is now owned by my Uncle. Most of the people
staying in the four blocks around my flat are the same people who have been staying there for the past 30
years or more. The area itself has changed very little, and the business districts are made up of primarily
retailers, take-aways, night clubs, bottle-stores and shebeens.
As I walk down memory lane and remember my past loves and sins, I realised very little of the history of
the people has been written.
So If not me, then who?
I will thus be writing a book on the history of the coloured families and their influence on Namibia. It
includes historical data,photographs and most importantly the personalities in politics, business, religion,
education, etc.
Feel free to contact me on miltonlouw@gmail.com or join [1]Coloureds in Namibia if you wish to collaborate.
1. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=73318363577

Understanding Microsoft Certifications (2009-10-07 15:29)

In today s world you need to continuously upgrade your skills and be able to provide proof of your expertise
and skills. This is very clear in Namibia and can be seen by the number of tertiary training schools teaching
business and technical skills.
Once you have undergone the training, it is important to ensure that you are certified as well. In technology
this means getting international certification, probably through Prometrix or similar examination board.
These certifications provide the recognition you need to excel in your career and provides employers with
validation of your skills.
If you would like to understand the language IT people use to define their qualifications, read on about the
Microsoft certifications below.
41
Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS)
The Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) credential validates skills in using the 2007 Microsoft
Office system and the Windows Vista operating system, meeting the demand for the most up-to-date skills
on the latest Microsoft technologies. Candidates who successfully complete the program by passing a certi-
fication exam show that they can meet globally recognized performance standards.
To earn the Microsoft Office 2007 Master certification, you must pass the following MCAS exams:
" MCAS: Microsoft Office Word 2007
" MCAS: Microsoft Office Excel 2007
" MCAS: Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2007
" MCAS: Microsoft Office Outlook 2007
Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
The Technology series is designed for IT professionals and developers who want to demonstrate their skills
and in-depth knowledge on a specific Microsoft technology. The Technology Series Certifications typically
consist of one, two, or three exams, and are focused on a key Microsoft software or technology. They do not
include job role skills, and are retired when mainstream product support for the related technology expires.
Microsoft Certified IT Professional and Certified Professional Developer (MCITP and MCPD)
The Professional series is designed for the experienced IT professional and validates a comprehensive set of
technology skills necessary to be successful in a particular job role. It s for the individual who wants to vali-
date his or her skills beyond technology prowess, and includes design, planning, deployment, and operations
management. By validating a more comprehensive set of skills, these credentials give candidates and their
hiring managers a reliable indicator of on-the-job performance.
The two Professional series credentials Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) and Microsoft Certi-
fied Professional Developer (MCPD) typically consist of one, two, or three exams and require one or more
prerequisites from the Technology series as well as periodic re-certification.
Microsoft Certified Master Series
Master Series Certifications identify individuals with the deepest technical skills on a particular Microsoft
technology. The program recognizes experienced IT professionals who can successfully design and imple-
ment solutions that meet the most complex business requirements. The strength of the program is advanced,
experience-based training and testing on Microsoft technologies that goes beyond any product training offered
outside of Microsoft today. The Master Series Certifications have prerequisite exams from the Technology
Series and Professional Series and require the candidate to attend and complete all training. A final qualifi-
cation lab exam focuses on a single technology platform.
Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA)
The Microsoft Certified Architect program makes it easy for companies to identify experienced IT architects
who have completed a rigorous peer review process and exhibit exemplary business IT skills and a proven
ability to deliver business solutions. The MCA program identifies prestigious professionals that have a min-
imum of ten years of advanced IT industry experience and three or more years of experience as a practicing
architect. They possess strong technical and managerial skills, and form an elite community. Unlike other
industry certifications, this credential was built, and is granted by the architect community. The Architect
Series Certifications have a rigorous and competitive entry process, require the candidate to work closely
with a mentor who is a Microsoft Certified Architect, and culminate in an oral review in front of certified
architects. Microsoft Certified Architects are required to periodically refresh their certification.
Certifications for Microsoft Dynamics
Microsoft Dynamics is a line of integrated, adaptable business management solutions that automate and
streamline financial, customer relationship, and supply chain processes in a way that helps drive business
success. The Microsoft Dynamics Certification program identifies individuals who can help deliver compre-
hensive business management solutions. There are two Microsoft Dynamics Certification titles Microsoft
Certified Business Management Specialist and Microsoft Certified Business Management Professional.
Microsoft Dynamics Certifications typically have single exams for each Microsoft Dynamics or related business
technology, along with other exams for other Microsoft technologies, such as SQL Server. The pre-determined
42
set of required and elective exams for this set of certifications focuses on three specific knowledge areas for
one Microsoft Dynamic product: applications, developer, and installation and configuration.

Inspiring children to read (2009-10-12 10:24)

Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

I’m sorry to say so
But, sadly it’s true
That bang-ups and hang-ups
Can happen to you.
Let s be sure when we step.
Step with care and great tact
And remember that Life s a great balancing act.
The above poem comes from Dr Seuss and I read it for the first time when I was around 13 years old. It is
with surprise that when I look back at many of the things I believe in, and that drove me to become what I
am, come from the reading material I had available.
I must therefore, do more to ensure that those children who come after me, have the same (if not more)
access to reading material.

God’s making space in my hands (2009-10-17 14:56)

A life lesson I remember from a teacher was about asking God for something . I had a successful career,
happy family and most everything money could buy. During this time I prayed to God to help me establish
my own business. But, instead of God answering my prayers, I found myself losing some of the wonderful
things I had. One of my mentors saw how dejected I was and asked, what s the matter? Upon hearing my
story, he replied, Oh, Milton. God is just making space in your hands for the next present. Your hands
were just too full!
So whenever I face adversity and see my possessions becoming less, I know it is God making more space for
that big gift he has prepared for me!

Sun is shining, weather is hot (2009-10-17 15:03)

Wow.
My life is on the up and up. Since starting my book in January, I have often wondered the cost of this to
me. I lost my place to stay (landlords renting out to corporates), furniture was taken (sheriff of the court),
daughter moved out (arguing about curfew), etc. etc.
Got a lucky break and started working for GijimaAst as the training manager for Microsoft training. This
was fun and I have enjoyed every minute of it!
The good part was: Trustco has hired me to be the Corporates Manager for Legalshield from the 1st
November 2009. Not only is the money good, the job is a challenge.
What more can I ask for?

43
1.10 November

Shortest job I ever had (2009-11-04 12:02)

I just probably had the shortest job in my life. A few weeks back I had been offered the job of Head:
Corporate Sales at Legalshield Namibia and I thought it would be great opportunity to get back in the
Corporate world rather than working for myself ;-).
Anyway, was supposed to start on Nov2 and went there with high expectations. Unfortunately, they have
believed someone else s version of events of what happened at the ICT Alliance (If you remember this was
the organisation that could not pay me a salary for a part-time job but still wanted to have a disciplinary
hearing after I had resigned at IIT.)
So, twenty minutes later I walked out and like always, thanked God for guiding my life.
Funnily enough, one of my best friends for over 30 years had warned me about the job. He was arrested
at his company on Wednesday and had wanted a lawyer. Even though he had paid-up membership of over
three years, they refused him the services of a lawyer.
So all s well that ends well. I am back on my own and running NamBizDotCom AND it feels good.
Thought for the week:
You can discover what your enemy fears most by observing the means he uses to frighten you.

Consumer Protection in Namibia (2009-11-13 09:40)

Whenever we hear about consumer rights, we must look closely, because there is sure to be a consumer
activist in the area. What is this activist doing and what is their goal?
According to definition, consumer activism is undertaken on behalf of consumers to assert consumer rights.
Goals can include making products or services that are directed at consumers safer, of better quality as well
as making them more readily available. The ideal goal is to push consumers to question the morality of a
purchased product’s origins.
Consumer activist tactics can include boycotts, petitioning the government, media activism, and organising
interest groups
The most common tactic is to have protest marches in order to gain political influence (make the politicians
listen). By gaining this influence, the group gains new political opportunities as well as access to resources
such as donor money, to use for their benefit. This in turns allows for funding of further activities to protest
and get the message heard.
One of the most important decisions by a consumer protection group must be the identification of a visible,
clear, and despicable target that will allow for unification and mobilisation of consumers.
In Namibia, there are many businesses (and their products) that make consumers angry. In an informal
survey, they most common culprits are banks, insurance companies and government. As for products, the
most often cited is the lack of control on freshness of products, be they fruit and vegetables, milk or bread.
The most vexing question must remain however, what power do consumers have. It is easy to advocate not
banking for a day , or not buying from a certain retailer, but this would need concerted effort from all
consumers, not just the activists.
Consumers need to stand up for their rights. Government has to enact legislation to protect consumers,
AND punish businesses that do not comply.
The Namibia Consumer Protection Group is holding a protest march on 15 March 2010 to push for recognition
of this day as Consumer Rights Day.
You can join the Namibia Consumer Protection Group on [1]Namibia Consumer Protection Group or at
[2]NCPG on Facebook.
44
1. http://namconsumer.ning.com/
2. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=166649789666

Induction Training for Parliamentarians (2009-11-16 10:27)

As part fo the run-up to our national elections, we have to consider the induction training that parliamen-
tarians should be getting.
As a nation we must understand and respect the institutions which propose debate and make our laws. Too
many times I have heard people say these politicians they are only in it for what they can get . The
Parliament has as its duty the education of the citizens in how we can make use of them to improve our
daily lives. Essentially, I would like to see private citizens being able to propose laws to their representatives
and have these submitted in Parliament. Unfortunately most of us accept that our laws are submitted by
bureaucrats (government employees) working under the orders of the Minster involved. Thus in fact not
separating the executive from the legislature, but rather having the parliament become a rubber stamp for
decisions made by the ruling party and its ministers.
We also have to recognise that being a Member of Parliament is a way for an individual to contribute his
or her experience for the improvement of our country, rather than a career path. In recent times we have
seen young people become members of parliament only to be caught up in acts which bring disrepute to the
institution. This can only be corrected if members of parliament have reached a certain amount of material
independence to allow them to vote for what they think is right, and not what will ensure their present
income.
I propose the Parliament Administration create a school for potential parliamentarians. This can be done
during the recess periods and will allow interested persons to gain first-hand experience on what would be
expected from them if they enter the Parliament.

Charter of Namibian Consumer Rights (2009-11-17 10:41)

Proposed Charter of Namibian Consumer Rights

1. The right to basic goods and services which guarantee survival.
2. The right to be protected against the marketing of goods or the provision of services that are hazardous
to health and life.
3. The right to be protected against dishonest or misleading advertising or labelling.
4. The right to choose products and services at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality.
5. The right to express consumer interests in the making and execution of government policy.
6. The right to be compensated for misrepresentation, shoddy goods or unsatisfactory services.
7. The right to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be an informed consumer.
8. The right to live and work in an environment which is neither threatening nor dangerous and which
permits a life of dignity and well-being.

Cultural Differences in Namibia (2009-11-24 15:06)

We have thrown the baby out with the bathwater. This is the only explanation of the total lack of information
based on cultural affiliations in our census in Namibia. Unfortunately, this attitude of let s pretend it is not
there does not make it so.
45
Even in South Africa, where the Apartheid system was the most formalised, they have recognised the need
to keep the information and knowledge of all cultural groups as part of the rainbow nation . Discrimination
because of race colour or culture is a thing of the past and is replaced by recognition and acceptance of our
differences.
We have also outlawed discrimination on the basis of gender, yet still need this categorisation to measure the
needed changes that must take place in our country for gender equality. In the same way it is important to
note that when a previously marginalised group, such as the San people, have qualified teachers from within
their own tribe and culture (Republikein 14 April 2009).
The lack of recognition of certain groups can have detrimental affects on our country. Look at what has
happened to some of our pre-Independence orphans who returned from East Germany. More recently we
have seen the SWAPO veterans and orphans also wishing to be recognised as a distinct group with specific
needs. In the near future we will see a new group forming of AIDS orphans who have grown up differently
with specific disadvantages that need to be addressed to allow them to fully pluck the fruits of our freedom.
What culture shall all these groups inherit?
There is a national culture Namibia. Thus we can refer to our language as Namlish with its peculiarities
and pronunciations. We are known by our friends and foes on the sport fields as the Brave warriors and the
Biltongboere.
In business we refer to the marketing process. It starts with an analysis of the present and then moves
to develop a strategy. In marketing it is recognised that to provide the best product for the customer
you need to segment the market. Tools such as the Living Standards Measurement are used to focus our
marketing efforts. A typical LSM would include age, gender, race or cultural group and income. (Living
Standards Measurement Study (LSMS) household surveys have become an important tool in measuring and
understanding poverty in developing countries.)
The people of Namibia are the customer. To serve our people better we must recognise our difference not
only in gender or language but also in race. The census in Namibia must measure the race and culture
embraced by each resident in future.
The tertiary education institutes in Namibia must then participate in research focussing on cultural, racial,
gender, urban-rural economic and livelihood inequalities in Namibia. This ongoing research must continue to
ask what the relationship is between the growth and spatial distribution of the public and private economic
sectors. It must also encompass the formal and informal economy, the nature of poverty, the characteristics
of poor areas, and socio-economic empowerment.
4CK9YP5E8CS2

Namibia Consumer Protection Group Complaint Form (2009-11-27 11:16)

IFRAME: [1]http://spreadsheets.google.com/embeddedform?key=tXoJuuWqoO9GERQ souOWhww Load-

ing...
1. http://spreadsheets.google.com/embeddedform?key=tXoJuuWqoO9GERQsouOWhww

1.11 December

Is a serious third party needed in Namibian politics? (2009-12-08 15:32)

This question came up recently in a discussion that was proposing a ”Workers Party” for Namibia after the
last election.
46
I had to think about it for a while, especailly as I am a SWAPO member.
But then inspiration struck, if we want to tackle a political problem, why not look at how this has been
done by consumer activitists (such as Ralp Nader in the USA). The most common denominator for people
is their consumer experience in a society. Nader considered launching a third party around issues of citizen
empowerment and consumer rights. He suggested a serious third party could address needs such as campaign-
finance reform, worker and whistle-blower rights, government-sanctioned watchdog groups to oversee banks
and insurance agencies, ...
I suggest that should a ”third-party” emerge it would only be viable if it had a coherent political platform.
What should this platform be based on?
Four things, namely the social movements, the peace movement, the civil rights movement, the environmental
movement, and the labour movement. (Often referred to as the ”green movement”.)
This would be a political platform I could follow!

Increasing employment - a government dilemma (2009-12-09 10:36)

The role of the Government in the developed world is to balance the creation of jobs against the expectations
of the employees. The private sector is encouraged through various means to invest and create employment
opportunities.
However, the labour force, through its Unions, have become so powerful, they often influence decision-making
that is detrimental to job creation. Bluntly put, an investor puts their money where they get the best return.
If labour costs are too high, they go elsewhere.
The Namibian Government has used a relaxation of the existing labour laws in its efforts to promote invest-
ment. The EPZ Act for example outlaws certain employee actions.
This has not worked.
Rather the government should work to streamline the hiring and firing processes across the board to allow
flexibility for investors. It should rather provide incentives to employers who train and develop their existing
workforce. For example, the Government could suggest a 1 % of turnover be spent of computer literacy of all
levels of employees over a three period. Those employers, who can document through proof of International
Computer Drivers Licences, will receive a tax rebate of 5 % for the five years thereafter.
Too much attention is put on preventive measure in our present labour laws. We should work together to
create reactive measures which will encourage better cooperation throughout the work environment.

Namibia Consumer Hotline (2009-12-11 10:19)

The NCPG is negotiating to establish a Consumer Hotline for Namibia. Consumers will be able to register
their complaints telephonically and their complaint will be dealt with and hopefully, solved.
A monthly newsletter will be sent to all members to inform them of the monthly issues and the percentage
of issues that have been resolved.
Remember you can also send a complaint to miltonlouw@gmail.com or fillout the [1]NCPG Complaint Form
(<—–click here)

1. http://milton-louw.blogspot.com/2009/11/namibia-consumer-protection-group.html

47
Legal Insurance in Namibia (2009-12-15 11:40)

The cost of taking legal action can be prohibitive. Could you afford to claim compensation if you were
injured in an accident, unfairly dismissed from work or had a dispute with a business?
A friend of mine has had legal insurance for the past three years and believed he was covered. About a
month ago, he was accussed of being involved in a theft syndicate at his work. He immediately called his
legal insurance company, but was informed they do not cover criminal cases.
He was taken for a polygraph test (is that legal in Namibia), and informed that he had failed the test. This
led to him leaving the job that morning to go speak to his legal insurer.
Yeah right. They do not cover the expenses for a labour case either.
WHAT is it with insurance companies that do not want to pay claims? If you complain at NAMFISA they
do very little to help.
If I am going to buy legal insurance I expect:
Bail Assistance
" Bail negotiations and applications on members behalf
" Depositing of the bail amount/issuing of bail guarantee on behalf of arrested member
Civil Law
" Bank and insurance matters
" Blacklisting
" Building and construction matters
" Contractual disputes
" Debt collection
" Letters of demand
" Litigation
" Personal injury claims, etc
Criminal Law
" Fraud, theft, robbery or assault
" Arrests
" Bail applications
" Consumer issues
" Driving under the influence
" Reckless driving
" Search warrants, etc.
Family Law
" Ante-nuptial contracts
" Custody disputes
" Divorces
" Family violence matters
" Interdicts
" Maintenance disputes, etc.
Labour Law
" Dismissals
" Disciplinary proceedings
" Pension payout disputes
" Restraint of trade agreements
" Retrenchments
" Unpaid wages
" Working condition
Surely this is not too much to ask?

48
Consumer Hotline for Namibia (2009-12-15 16:19)

The NCPG is negotiating to establish a Consumer Hotline for Namibia. Consumers will be able to register
their complaints telephonically and their complaint will be dealt with and hopefully, solved.
A monthly newsletter will be sent to all members to inform them of the monthly issues and the percentage
of issues that have been resolved.
Remember you can also send a complaint to miltonlouw@gmail.com or fillout the NCPG complaint form at
http://milton-louw.blogspot.com/2009/11/namibia-consumer-protection- group.html

49
50
Chapter 2

2010

2.1 January

Namibia needs a national register (2010-01-07 09:12)

Throughout the world there is a huge amount of resources being spent on research and development which
in turn generates vast amounts of information that needs to be managed effectively, and efficiently. The
pace of new technologies such as computers, their storage capabilities, and the ability to communicate with
one another allows for ever larger quantities of information to be stored and analysed. A national electronic
database will allow Namibia to move from a rural based economy to a knowledge based economy and meet
its development goals.
Namibia has the aim of creating a successful social market economy. When we look at the recent history
after the Second World War, we see the rebuilding of the German economy as one of the economic success
stories of the last century. Upon closer examination, the building blocks of the state have included the ability
to know the movement of all its residents. For example, when a person moves from one city to another,
they have to register themselves at the local Rathaus or municipality. When we investigate the ability of
the German business to trade with another, and more importantly to provide suppliers credit, we notice the
importance of trade registers, both government and privately created.
The creation of a central public register in Namibia would have many benefits for the country. The most
important would be the updating of information needed for planning purposes, without having to wait for
the ten yearly censuses.
Overview of databases
A database is a collection of data, organised in a computer that allows rapid filtering and sorting of this
information. A database is thus an electronic filing system. A Namibian national database will include a
collection of varied information about our citizens and businesses. This will allow for a one-stop information
base or storage facility for government ministries, State-owned Enterprises, municipalities and local districts.
It will also allow access to the business community, both local and internationally, who require any information
on Namibia.
A closer look at how information is organised, stored, retrieved and managed in Namibia shows that Namibia
as a nation has not strategically made any effort to have a central database system which will function by
gathering data from all sectors of the economy and managing the data in such a way that it becomes accessible
to all for the purpose of delivering an efficient government and business function.
Benefits of database
The overwhelming benefit is that it will instantly be clear which sector is non-performing, and allow corrective
measure to be taken to achieve Vision 2030.
Another benefit is that it can also reduce corruption; ensure greater transparency and good governance. As
51
we begin to benchmark the advanced countries in their development efforts, one thing that has helped their
economies is a national database and the lower levels of corruption can be attributed to the institution of
a database that is accessible everywhere in their countries. As a result the performance of one’s activity
becomes a check on one another and there is no doubt that this makes people less corrupt and become more
transparent.
In addition, the creation of a national register will mean that the registration of voters will be a continuous
process as part of the management of services to our citizens. Thus we will save large amounts of money
presently being spent on voters registration, as well costly exercises in verification.

Sssshhhh.... I know your home address (2010-01-07 10:52)

So now I have a database of over 750,000 Namibians with their full names, date of birth and physical
addresses. (and you can too).
A writer writes not because he is educated but because he is driven by the need to communicate. Behind
the need to communicate is the need to share. Behind the need to share is the need to be understood. -
Leo Rosten
Reality Bites. No two ways about it. Started this new year with such good intentions and then someone,
somewhere does it again.
Must I keep quiet about this (mis)managment of data in our country. You decide...
For the past twenty years, I have made it a hobby to collect databases of every kind on namibia. It started
with busienss directories, trade information, consumer records, etc. This has become a substantial dbase
with over 11,00 companies and 250,000 consumers. Much to my surprise, I discovered a rather easy way to
get access to another 500,000 consumer records that inlcudes their home addresses and dates of birth.
Come on, now is the time to put in place a privacy and data protection laws!

Marginalization of Coloureds must end (2010-01-13 13:10)

29.12.2009
Marson Sharpley writes:
WELL done people of Namibia, my fellow countrymen and women! We have to be proud of the manner in
which we voted and behaved during the voting period. It is this that makes one proud to be Namibian!
Having said that, I want to advance an argument that I hope will become part of the future debates of our
population as we strive to find the best-suited leadership in the political, economic and social sectors of our
society. I believe that we need to examine and interrogate the demarcations we have accepted in terms of
the roles that people are supposed to be filling in our society.
The Oxford dictionary describes or at least defines politics as the art and science of government or activities
concerned with the acquisition or exercise of authority or government. The first point I would like to make
and attempt to clarify is the fact that when we speak about church , politics and/or society , we tend
to refer to these entities in the third person as though we who are referring to them are not part of them.
Church is the people, politics is the people and society is the people! The idea of addressing these entities
as some nebulous concept detached from us is, in my opinion erroneous! I am a human being, a son to my
biological parents, a brother to my siblings, a husband to my wife and a father to my children and then I
am a Pastor of my ministry as ordained by God.
As a human being who ascribes Christianity as the foundational basis of my world view and philosophy of
life, I am ordained to be a leader by God who instructs man to take dominion over creation. Making us
all leaders in one-way or another. I must be frank at this point and make reference to my mixed raceness,
52
my colouredness in our context. With all that I went through during apartheid in both South Africa and
Namibia and after my direct confrontation of racism, I have come to the conclusion that prejudice, tribalism
and even racism continue to batter my life like the angry unabated waves of the ocean against the rocks.
It is this sense of marginalization that forces me to trace my existence and roots way beyond the physical
anthropological stigmatization to the spiritual genesis of who I am.
Both science and the Bible inform me that as molecular and physically visible as I am, I was sound before
that, and I was light before being sound and I was thought before being light and before thought you and I
and everything were spirit. This then brings me to the realization and conclusion that I owe my existence
to none other than God who created me.
The sense of socio-political marginalization and the existence of an invisible ceiling because of being
Coloured or mixed race in Namibia in this day and age makes me, together with other like-minded
intellectuals who ascribe to the Bible, come to the conclusion that there is no other recourse but to organize
all Coloured or mixed race people in this country into an entity that cannot and will not be ignored just
as the Hereros, Namas, Owambos, Afrikaners, Chinese and Damaras etc are doing right before our very eyes.
This is one of a myriad of reasons why I intend to vigorously campaign for the formation of a Coalition of
Political Church Leaders. Oh yes, I voted as a resident of Windhoek rural and my vote remains influenced
and informed by my revolutionary mileage and credentials.
However, I realize that my kind both racially and religiously are marginalized because of belly politics. Any
church leader who does not have a political impact will have missed the plot because Christianity is about
the establishment of the Kingdom of God that is in itself a political exercise. What is happening in our
country for Coloureds is that we are being informed without it being said that we are so useless that we
are unable to be a Governor, a Permanent Secretary, an Ambassador, a Deputy Minister, a Minister etc. I
do not see the need to grovel and beg to be given a position in Government just because I am Coloured .
Oh yes, you must believe me when I say that I have a patriotism to Namibia that is well known and respected
in both political and church circles. Why, I even encourage my pastors and congregations to sing the national
anthem at the end of a church service. However, when I meditate and look and examine the modus operandi
of the political sphere of Namibia, I realize that with all my eccentric patriotism, I belong to a group of
people who are socially, politically and economically marginalized.
Forming a Coalition of Political Church Leaders is going to work at developing a socio-political culture that
will truly celebrate and utilize the tribal and ethnic diversity of all participants and transcend all prejudices.
As a Pan-Africanist I am clear of my political homes in every African nation I come to, but that does not
make me blind and stupid not to see that as a Coloured in my home country, I am not taken seriously.
Besides being unfair, unrighteous and wicked, it is a devilish state of affairs that is no longer acceptable and
calls for a serious response from my people, the Coloureds ! Someone had the audacity and temerity to
inform me the other day that Coloureds were not meant to be. As if they are a mistake.
Now if that is the thinking in certain circles, then I believe the time has come to address such rubbish and
begin to make it clear to all and sundry that actually we are not a walkover of drunks, hooligans and whores!
I am actually wondering why the Colored community is not realizing and responding to the injustice that is
being perpetrated against us. I really and truly never ever thought that I would find myself having to speak
up as a Coloured .
Having to write like this is to me an indictment against our democracy and what the constitution of the
Republic of Namibia stands for! My only recourse as a political church leader is to stand on the Word of
God, the Bible and to demand equality and full representation for Coloured people in Government.
Coloured people on the other hand have to realize that as a community, leaders need to be identified and
they must take responsibility to organize the Coloured community so that we are not taken for granted as
is currently the case.
The fact of the matter is that all the other races and ethnic groups in this country have clear leaders on
both the political and traditional fronts of our society. Being Coloured is not being a sub-culture that is less
African than any other African-born group of people, being Coloured is not a disgrace or a mistake, being
Coloured does not mean being viewed as stupid and not caring!
53
Being Coloured is being a human being created in the image of God with aspirations, dreams and ambitions
like all other African tribes, races and ethnic groups in Namibia and the African continent at large. It is this
state of affairs that now warrants that I as a Coloured church leader should begin to address this matter as
Esther in the Bible had to do for her people the Jews.
I am a loyal member of this society and of my political party! I together with many other worthy Coloured
leaders need to be respected and recognized nationally in our nation instead of being made to feel like second-
class citizens. I also realize that this stance I am taking will not please many people, but honestly, I am
quite tired of pleasing people who are happy with me as long as I remain a good house nigger ! Rubbish!
This is one debate I am prepared to die for so that my children do not despise who they are to the point of
urinating on my grave one day because I did nothing when I should have. Yes, to you who have married or
have offspring across ethnic and colour lines, your children will one day find themselves at a place they did
not expect because they will be viewed as coloured and thus be treated as second class. Looking at the
political party lists really was depressing because Coloureds have been clearly lost in the maze of it all!
However I must also add that many Coloured people s world view has been tarnished and contaminated by
the racism of apartheid. This is something that the Coloured community cannot deny as it needs to be
addressed! It comes from the fact that the custodians of apartheid indoctrinated the mixed race people that
they were superior to the Black people, but lower than the White.
Who am I? Am I a drawer of water and a hewer of wood? Am I just the filling in a sandwich? Am I a pen
pusher who s task it is to advance the comforts of the petty bourgeoisie? Who am I? Who are we?

Coloured issue can t be ignored (2010-01-13 13:12)

28.12.2009
Marson Sharpley writes:
As a man of God I realize that I cannot afford the luxury of being so heavenly minded that I become earthly
useless. There are three distinct types within the Colored community that I have come to be aware of, i.e.
those who consider themselves to be more Black than White, those who consider themselves more White
than Black and those who are simply Colored and that s it!
In fact it has very little to do with skin pigmentation as much as it has to do with upbringing. Nevertheless,
no matter what side of the racial divide they lean towards, Coloreds born in Africa are Africans who have
the full right to be part of the action and have a piece of the cake. My previous article on this subject must
not be viewed as an emotional tirade by what one newspaper termed proud to be colored .
No, this matter I intend rationally and pragmatically addressing through systematically forming a delegation
of eminent Colored leaders to go and seek an audience with His Excellency the President of the Republic of
Namibia. The intention here is not to be subversive, undermining or destabilizing.
The idea is to ensure that the status quo, which seems to be that Coloreds have to have leaders imposed
on them because they do not have the ability and capacity to present their leaders, has to be stopped. The
sense that the existence of Coloreds is ignored now has to come to an end because we are here and we are
real.
We are members of both the ruling party SWAPO and some among us are members of the opposition
parties. However, the argument I am pursuing and putting on the table goes beyond party political matters
and directly to the very existence and representation of a specific minority group of people who also need to
have leaders that they can culturally identify with who will be able to address their specific concerns as a
distinct ethnic and cultural group.
The Colored community is made up of some of the best artisans and administrators in the country. Whilst
the generalization of the love of strong liquor has established itself in the description of Coloreds, we are
also intellectuals, revolutionaries, community activists, students, entrepreneurs, politicians, soldiers, civilian
intelligence scientists, journalists, lawyers and doctors.
54
With this capability I together with otherlike- minded members of the Colored community realize that if
we do not have national, political leadership in the RulingParty from our community, the exploitation of
Coloreds will be automated. National political leadership status allows the individual(s) to have authority
in the society and their community so as to be able to guide, organize and counsel the community or in this
case the ethnic group.
This will help to see Colored youth as part of the security apparatus, the diplomatic corps and other strategic
areasof governance such as security detail for even the Head of State, and even as drivers for Government
VIPs. We want to see our unemployed matriculants in the army, the police force and other sectors where
they can be trained so that they become contributors instead of merely maintaining an existence of being
parasitic consumers.
We also need to see young people from the Colored community receiving bursaries to Cuba, Russia, USA,
Europe and China. I would like to see Colored people also heading State Owned Enterprises and Parastatals.
I am making this call in a bid to draw attention to the plight of an entire community that, if it does not have
political representation to enhance and instill discipline, will in future breed a level of gangsterism through
organized crime like Namibia has never imagined could exist within its borders.
A good example of this is what happened on the Cape Flats in South Africa as recently as 2004. The
tendency has been to confine us to tenders and church activity in the hope that that will satisfy us and make
us ignore the fact that we have been politically hijacked and systematically marginalized.
One of us is an Under Secretary in Cabinet or something like that, one of us is the Ombudsman, some of us
are High Court judges, but who of us are going to be a Deputy Minister, a Minister, a Permanent Secretary,
a Governor, a General in the army or a Commodore in the Navy?
Who of us as Coloreds is trusted enough to even be the DG of the civilian intelligence apparatus? If the
requirement here is the ability to speak, read and write an indigenous language(s), then let us know so that
we can study the language by living in the target language community. Should the main requirement be
loyalty, patriotism, commitment and determination to see Vision 2030 realized, then vet us, do background
checks, do IQ checks, but for heaven s sake, stop marginalizing us as Colored people.
Please also understand that as a man of God and as a pastor, I am all things to all men just as the Bible
requires, but my background will inform you that I did not just drop out of the sky as a pastor. Everyone
in the ministry I lead with my spouse and many other pastors knows that I am raceless and do not tolerate
any form of racism, tribalism or ethnic divisionist agendas.
In my interaction with many of you as my political leaders, I realized that many of you have no clue of some
of us and where we come from and what our capabilities and experience is. Some of you have been blinded
by your own prejudice and tribal arrogance to the point where you have forgotten that we all have minds
to think and that we have all been on life s journey and seen and heard enough to inform us as to what our
status is.
Jesus Christ meets a woman at a well and he asks her for water, referring to his tiredness because of the
long journey he has made. Metaphorically in the physical, but real in the spirit, the journey He refers to
took him 4000 years to the point where He speaks to the woman at the well. Now that is the same with all
of us as grown ups.
We have journeyed, politically, academically, spiritually and been around many places and many people. We
are NOT VILLAGE FOOLS AND IMBECILES, we are NOT! I believe that there is a need for a Coloured
People s Convention (CPC) within the next three months before posts and positions are allocated. The aim
of such a convention will not be to lament how we are being unjustly treated, but rather to identify and elect
legitimate and acceptable Colored leaders who have the capacity to fully work for Namibia as a country and
for the Coloured people.
Please note that any national leader, especially in the ruling party must be loyal to the party first and then
serve the interests of the nation at large and then make sure that they represent their constituency, which is
usually tribally and/or ethnically demarcated! That is a given!
However, my concern here is the lack of Colored representation in Government on a more political, national
level. Let s talk, let s deliberate, let s discuss, let s debate and let us reach an amicable win-win situation
55
where I like any other parent can be at ease in this beautiful, peaceful country knowing that my children s
future, like any other child is secure and not undermined just because of being Colored!

What is success? (2010-01-13 13:42)

I am successful! By definition, success is about attaining an objective. Thus to be successful means you meet
your objectives.
The catch is what are your objectives? How do you go about setting these aims? Is it a haphazard guess -
oooh I want to be rich? Or do you seriously sit down and take time to plan and concretise your objectives?
I was fortunate to have many wonderful teachers and mentors who, from an early age, encouraged me to
achieve my objectives because they believed in me. One of the most important lessons I learnt was how to
set an objective.
In school we are taught an objective should be SMART - that is:
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Achievable
R - Realistic
T- Time-bound
This is easier said than done!!!!!! Nevertheless, once an objective is SMART, success is bound to happen.
One thing that has helped me over the years is the visualisation of my success. I spend time daydreaming
about what it would be like to have achieved the success already. I even make a shopping list of the things
I will buy with the money I plan on earning.
Another important part of achieving success is making sure I do not use the measuring stick of others. If
you find money important, then use it as YOUR measure. BUT, for me acquiring knowledge and helping
others is my measure.
In 1999, I was challenged to create a business plan for my business life. It took almost three years, but I
completed a comprehensive plan in 2003. Of course, when I did the financials, I realised that at least N $ 10
million would be needed. Now, where was I going to get that kind of money?
Then a funny thing started happening. As the years have gone on, I evaluate the objectives set in the plan
and guess what? I always meet, if not surpass, all the objectives set out in my plan. WITHOUT THE
MONEY?
How do I do it you ask? The setting up of these objectives were SMART. The need for certain actions were
written up. All I have to do is alighn myslef with what the universe has seen to be the end result. I got no
other answer than that.
So I end this with a suggestion to you. Prepare a Business Plan for your Life!

This Colour Thing in Namibia (2010-01-13 16:44)

Many years ago I was asked, Who are you? This was before Independence and I understood my credentials
were being questioned. My reply was, First, I am a human being, and secondly I am a Namibian. Last,
and least important, I am coloured .
Now I am 40 and take the time to sit back and look back at the mileposts during my life. It is also the time
to look forward to the end of my days, and consider where I have gone wrong, and perhaps where I have
made a meaningful difference. It is most definitely like sitting in an armchair and contemplating in order to
understand itself and mentally grasp its own activity, that of the mind. After all, to be able to look back
upon ones life in satisfaction is to live twice.
56
So in this last chapter I must also address mistakes that I have made in my feeble attempts at contributing
to the nationhood of our beloved land. I have thought it unimportant where my family comes from, what
their cultures and beliefs were, and often thought these were to be considered and ultimately rejected as part
of their living in a past dominated by the racial classification given by the system of Apartheid.
Who I am is not dictated by our external environment, but rather by the internal. As humans we tend to
blame our culture, society, government, employers and even our own families for things that goes wrong, but
rarely give them credit for our achievements.
As time has passed I have gone from reading science fiction to more biographies on the historical figures in
our history. (Imagine my surprise when I found out that Benjamin Franklin had already added a thought
for the month in his Poor Richard s Almanac, and written advice to a newly establishing tradesman.:)
Reading through these biographies, and accessing their quotes has made a dramatic impact on my life.
Throughout my book, Smile My beloved Land, I have often put forward an argument to find that a similar
proposal has been done by great men before me. I was not the first, and hopefully not the last, to have these
great expectations form the human race.
Lastly, I address myself to the words of Albert Einstein, He who cherishes the values of culture cannot fail
to be a pacifist.

I know, I know Not (2010-01-14 12:30)

There are four kinds of knowing.

" Knowing you know,
" knowing you know not,
" not knowing you know and
" not knowing you know not
Let’s look at each one and what it means:
Knowing you know - this is what we consider our education and training
Knowing you know not - this is what we want to learn
Not knowing you know - this refers to information you have gained, but are not aware of using in your life -
often recognised as trivia
Not knowing you know not - this is the area you need to find out more about!
Around twenty years ago, I realised that due to the place and time I grew up in, I had been kept in the dark
about many things (censorship). This was especaily clear when it came to religion or as it is also known,
metphysics.
Below a list of things I did not know I did not know when I was twenty. Maybe you might find it useful?
" Ramtha
" Reiki
" Dianetics Scientology
" Aristotle
" 7 habits of successful people
" The art of loving a woman
" The art of keeping a good woman
Perhaps, you know something I don’t know I don’t know?

Namibia Consumer Hotline (2010-01-22 16:36)

Great News!
We have completed the agreement with telecom for our Consumer Hotline. The number is 0886 90909.
57
We will kick this off early next week for testing and have it fully operation by 1 February 2010.

Desiderata - Be a person becoming by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 13:59)

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as
possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and
listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive
persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or
bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well
as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing
fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this
not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of
heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all
aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully
surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not
distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome
discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you
have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it
should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and
aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken
dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

”A Prayer” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:00)

Let me do my work each day; and if the darkened hours of despair overcome me, may I not forget the strength
that comforted me in the desolation of other times.
May I still remember the bright hours that found me walking over the silent hills of my childhood, or dreaming
on the margin of a quiet river, when a light glowed within me, and I promised my early God to have courage
amid the tempests of the changing years.
Spare me from bitterness and from the sharp passions of unguarded moments. May I not forget that poverty
and riches are of the spirit.
Though the world knows me not, may my thoughts and actions be such as shall keep me friendly with myself.
Lift up my eyes from the earth, and let me not forget the uses of the stars. Forbid that I should judge others
lest I condemn myself.
Let me not follow the clamor of the world, but walk calmly in my path.
Give me a few friends who will love me for what I am; and keep ever burning before my vagrant steps the
kindly light of hope.
And though age and infirmity overtake me, and I come not within sight of the castle of my dreams, teach me
still to be thankful for life, and for time’s olden memories that are good and sweet; and may the evening’s
twilight find me gentle still.

”Whatever else you do” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:10)

Whatever else you do or forbear,

impose upon yourself the task of happiness;
58
and now and then abandon yourself
to the joy of laughter.
And however much you condemn
the evil in the world, remember that the
world is not all evil; that somewhere
children are at play, as you yourself in the
old days; that women still find joy
in the stalwart hearts of men;
And that men, treading with restless feet
their many paths, may yet find refuge
from the storms of the world in the cheerful
house of love.

”Reforming Oneself” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:11)

It has been raining again. I have been indoors, meditating on the shortcomings of life.
I wish there were more kindly persons in the world. Our competitive life develops selfishness and unkindness.
I am determined to do something about it. I cannot hope to convert many persons. To convert one person,
I shall do well.
I will begin with the person I know best - myself.
When it rains and one is much indoors one is likely to meditate on the shortcomings of life.
Let me think - how shall I make myself kind, gentle considerate?
I do believe it has stopped raining.
I can go out now. I’ll go and shoot on the archery range.
I’ll not bother to reform myself today. Perhaps tomorrow - if it is raining, and I must stay indoors, and
meditate on the shortcomings of life.

” Dark Days” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:13)

What fool shall say, ”My days are fair,

God’s in his world and all is well,”
When half mankind shrieks in despair
Worse than in Dante’s flaming hell!
I cannot sing in happy mood
While hostile armies take their toll.
On these dark days I toil and brood
With starless midnight in my soul.
And yet, O World, O Life, O God!
I find myself, jest as the fool,
Believing in thy chastening rod,
Believing still that love must rule.

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”Wanderers” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:14)

A clear, cool night. I have been reading, but the thoughts of man do not solace me.
I raised the curtain and looked at the moon, clear and silvery; and I brushed some of the unrest out of my
mind.
I know all the theories of the moon.
There have been times when the symbols of science have robbed me of some of its mystery and charm.
But no one can explain the moon any more than a grasshopper can explain me.
In youth, the moon promised too much.
But now I understand better; that was not the moon’s fault.
Also the moon and I have this in common:
We both are wanderers across the night.

Cinderella - Roald Dahl (2010-01-29 14:26)

I guess you think you know this story.

You don’t. The real one’s much more gory.
The phoney one, the one you know,
Was cooked up years and years ago,
And made to sound all soft and sappy
just to keep the children happy.
Mind you, they got the first bit right,
The bit where, in the dead of night,
The Ugly Sisters, jewels and all,
Departed for the Palace Ball,
While darling little Cinderella
Was locked up in a slimy cellar,
Where rats who wanted things to eat,
Began to nibble at her feet.
She bellowed ’Help!’ and ’Let me out!
The Magic Fairy heard her shout.
Appearing in a blaze of light,
She said: ’My dear, are you all right?’
’All right?’ cried Cindy .’Can’t you see
’I feel as rotten as can be!’
She beat her fist against the wall,
And shouted, ’Get me to the Ball!
’There is a Disco at the Palace!
’The rest have gone and I am jealous!
’I want a dress! I want a coach!
’And earrings and a diamond brooch!
’And silver slippers, two of those!
’And lovely nylon panty hose!
’Done up like that I’ll guarantee
’The handsome Prince will fall for me!’
The Fairy said, ’Hang on a tick.’
She gave her wand a mighty flick
And quickly, in no time at all,
60
Cindy was at the Palace Ball!
It made the Ugly Sisters wince
To see her dancing with the Prince.
She held him very tight and pressed
herself against his manly chest.
The Prince himself was turned to pulp,
All he could do was gasp and gulp.
Then midnight struck. She shouted,’Heck!
I’ve got to run to save my neck!’
The Prince cried, ’No! Alas! Alack!’
He grabbed her dress to hold her back.
As Cindy shouted, ’Let me go!’
The dress was ripped from head to toe.
She ran out in her underwear,
And lost one slipper on the stair.
The Prince was on it like a dart,
He pressed it to his pounding heart,
’The girl this slipper fits,’ he cried,
’Tomorrow morn shall be my bride!
I’ll visit every house in town
’Until I’ve tracked the maiden down!’
Then rather carelessly, I fear,
He placed it on a crate of beer.
At once, one of the Ugly Sisters,
(The one whose face was blotched with blisters)
Sneaked up and grabbed the dainty shoe,
And quickly flushed it down the loo.
Then in its place she calmly put
The slipper from her own left foot.
Ah ha, you see, the plot grows thicker,
And Cindy’s luck starts looking sicker.
Next day, the Prince went charging down
To knock on all the doors in town.
In every house, the tension grew.
Who was the owner of the shoe?
The shoe was long and very wide.
(A normal foot got lost inside.)
Also it smelled a wee bit icky.
(The owner’s feet were hot and sticky.)
Thousands of eager people came
To try it on, but all in vain.
Now came the Ugly Sisters’ go.
One tried it on. The Prince screamed, ’No!’
But she screamed, ’Yes! It fits! Whoopee!
’So now you’ve got to marry me!’
The Prince went white from ear to ear.
He muttered, ’Let me out of here.’
’Oh no you don’t! You made a vow!
’There’s no way you can back out now!’
’Off with her head!’The Prince roared back.
61
They chopped it off with one big whack.
This pleased the Prince. He smiled and said,
’She’s prettier without her head.’
Then up came Sister Number Two,
Who yelled, ’Now I will try the shoe!’
’Try this instead!’ the Prince yelled back.
He swung his trusty sword and smack
Her head went crashing to the ground.
It bounced a bit and rolled around.
In the kitchen, peeling spuds,
Cinderella heard the thuds
Of bouncing heads upon the floor,
And poked her own head round the door.
’What’s all the racket? ’Cindy cried.
’Mind your own bizz,’ the Prince replied.
Poor Cindy’s heart was torn to shreds.
My Prince! she thought. He chops off heads!
How could I marry anyone
Who does that sort of thing for fun?
The Prince cried, ’Who’s this dirty slut?
’Off with her nut! Off with her nut!’
Just then, all in a blaze of light,
The Magic Fairy hove in sight,
Her Magic Wand went swoosh and swish!
’Cindy! ’she cried, ’come make a wish!
’Wish anything and have no doubt
’That I will make it come about!’
Cindy answered, ’Oh kind Fairy,
’This time I shall be more wary.
’No more Princes, no more money.
’I have had my taste of honey.
I’m wishing for a decent man.
’They’re hard to find. D’you think you can?’
Within a minute, Cinderella
Was married to a lovely feller,
A simple jam maker by trade,
Who sold good home-made marmalade.
Their house was filled with smiles and laughter
And they were happy ever after.

”I go my way” by Max Ehrmann (2010-01-29 14:49)

All round is haste, confusion, noise.

For power and wealth men stretch the day
From dawn till dusk.
But quietly I go my way.
For glitter, show, to taunt the crowd,
Desire-tossed in wild dismay,
62
Men sell their souls.
But quietly I go my way.
The green of all the fields is mine;
The stars, the night, the wind at play,
A peaceful heart, while quietly
I go my way.

”Happiness” by Max Erdmann (2010-01-29 14:50)

To be without desire is to be content. But contentment is not happiness. And in contentment there is no
progress. Happiness is to desire something, to work for it, and to obtain at least a part of it. In the pursuit
of beloved labor the busy days pass cheerfully employed, and the still nights in peaceful sleep.
For labor born of desire is not drudgerey, but manly play. Success brings hope, hope inspires fresh desire,
and desire gives zest to life and joy to labor. This is true whether your days be spent in the palaces of the
powerful or in some little green byway of the world.
Therefore, while yet you have the strength, cherish a desire to do some useful work in your little corner of the
world, and have the steadfastness to labor. For this is the way to the happy life; with health and endearing
ties, it is the way to the glorious life.

2.2 February

Abortion - what else do we have to offer? (2010-02-05 11:46)

Human Rights Watch considers abortion within the context of human rights, arguing:
”Abortion is a highly emotional subject and one that excites deeply held opinions. However, equitable access
to safe abortion services is first and foremost a human right. Where abortion is safe and legal, no one is forced
to have one. Where abortion is illegal and unsafe, women are forced to carry unwanted pregnancies to term
or suffer serious health consequences and even death. Approximately 13 % of maternal deaths worldwide are
attributable to unsafe abortion between 68,000 and 78,000 deaths annually
I have often been asked what my opinion of abortion is. My Christian upbringing immediately jumps
in and shouts No . I see no wrong in contraceptives as a form of birth control, but the abortion issue
becomes too emotional, too quickly.
However, what are we doing as a community to support pregnant young girls? Is there a social safety net
for unwed mothers who cannot, or do not, want this child? It is sad to hear of another case of infanticide,
but I have never heard of the father also being held responsible.
We need to as a community, provide support structures through homes for unwed mothers, or even drop-off
points for unwanted children.

Extended CreditWise Consumer Protection (2010-02-05 11:47)

The CreditWise Consumer Protection Plan is also offering additional services. This includes an online filing
cabinet for medical records, financial information and more.
Wallet / Purse Backup
63
have you lost your wallet, or worse had it stolen? With our Wallet Section you can save the following infor-
mation:
Banking and insurance information, such as account numbers, bank card numbers, and insurance, health,
car and home insurance data
Identification records, like ID documents, drivers licenses, passports, social security numbers and even your
educational certificates
Identity Theft Cover
If your identity is stolen we will help you deal with the problems that arise and get your life back on track.
Medical History
Do you know your blood group, or those of your family? Would you be able to answer a medical question in
an emergency? In the medical section we allow you store information such as:
Allergies, medical conditions, family health records, your personal medical history, including medications
you have taken or are taking, immunization records, surgeries/procedures, and medical devices.
Information about your various healthcare providers (doctors, dentists, etc.) and other vital medical docu-
ments.
Emergency contact information that is connected to an ICE (In Case of Emergency) card you will receive in
the mail with your subscription
All this information is available 24/7 via our online or telephone service.

I am a Success! (2010-02-05 11:50)

I am successful! By definition, success is about attaining an objective. Thus to be successful means you meet
your objectives.
The catch is what are your objectives? How do you go about setting these aims? Is it a haphazard guess -
oooh I want to be rich? Or do you seriously sit down and take time to plan and concretise your objectives?
I was fortunate to have many wonderful teachers and mentors who, from an early age, encouraged me to
achieve my objectives because they believed in me. One of the most important lessons I learnt was how to
set an objective.
In school we are taught an objective should be SMART - that is:
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Achievable
R - Realistic
T- Time-bound
This is easier said than done!!!!!! Nevertheless, once an objective is SMART, success is bound to happen.
One thing that has helped me over the years is the visualisation of my success. I spend time daydreaming
about what it would be like to have achieved the success already. I even make a shopping list of the things
I will buy with the money I plan on earning.
Another important part of achieving success is making sure I do not use the measuring stick of others. If
you find money important, then use it as YOUR measure. BUT, for me acquiring knowledge and helping
others is my measure.
In 1999, I was challenged to create a business plan for my business life. It took almost three years, but I
completed a comprehensive plan in 2003. Of course, when I did the financials, I realised that at least N $ 10
million would be needed. Now, where was I going to get that kind of money?
Then a funny thing started happening. As the years have gone on, I evaluate the objectives set in the plan
and guess what? I always meet, if not surpass, all the objectives set out in my plan. WITHOUT THE
MONEY?
How do I do it you ask? The setting up of these objectives were SMART. The need for certain actions were
64
written up. All I have to do is alighn myslef with what the universe has seen to be the end result. I got no
other answer than that.
So I end this with a suggestion to you. Prepare a Business Plan for your Life!

The lady on the farm (2010-02-05 11:52)

I cannot believe you have left,

On the way to the airport,
Not knowing what you have done,
Or understanding what I caught.
We both were stuck with heartache,
Shared it with each other for while,
Feeling much better now knowing,
Others need not understand our style.
Most of the other family and guests around us,
Probably thought it was only a holiday fling,
But we both know better about our hearts,
And the joy to our insides it did bring.
I am sorry that I had to act nonchalant,
And pretend there was nothing between us,
Because your family need only have looked at me,
And in my eyes have seen the lust.
Now you left back for your home,
Thank god that we have facebook,
Now every day we can chat and laugh,
And get ready for the next holiday u book.

Celebrating four decades (2010-02-05 11:54)

There are two mistakes one can make along the road to truth...not going all the way, and not starting.
I stand today at a crossroads in my life. In this past year I have spent considerable time in looking at my
past, and specifically my motivations for the actions that I have undertaken. Now as I stand on the brink of
turning 40, it is time to build on the foundations I have laid.
The one thing that I can say is, I have fought the temptation to take the easy way. My choice has more
often than not been the ”road less travelled”.
This coming year will be rather a harsh one. If I have done what was required, and my planning was right,
all will be well.

On being a father (2010-02-05 11:55)

My daughter, Ziana, just passed her Grade 10 with flying colours.

Being a divorced father, I realise ”..fatherhood isn’t easy like motherhood”. So pasted below a few quotes for
us fathers out there:
The father who would taste the essence of his fatherhood must turn back from the plane of his experience,
65
take with him the fruits of his journey and begin again beside his child, marching step by step over the same
old road. Angelo Patri
There’s something like a line of gold thread running through a man’s words when he talks to his daughter,
and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a
cloth that feels like love itself. John Gregory Brown, Decorations in a Ruined Cemetery, 1994
Henry James once defined life as that predicament which precedes death, and certainly nobody owes you a
debt of honor or gratitude for getting him into that predicament. But a child does owe his father a debt, if
Dad, having gotten him into this peck of trouble, takes off his coat and buckles down to the job of showing
his son how best to crash through it. Clarence Budington Kelland

Forgiving is a hard journey (2010-02-05 11:56)

We achieve inner health only through forgiveness - the forgiveness not only of others but also of ourselves
This year I decided to face the anger and pain in my heart. Unfortunately, like a boil, you first have to pierce
it and let the puss out before you can treat it. This I did and was heartened by the many friends on FB who
commented on this angry outburst.
My inspiration for this Xmas period and beyond is:
”Forgiveness is not always easy. At times, it feels more painful than the wound we suffered, to forgive the
one that inflicted it. And yet, there is no peace without forgiveness.”

To my ex-wife (2010-02-05 11:56)

This year I am giving myself a Xmas present. I am relieving myself of having to lie on your behalf again.
For the past eight years I have kept quiet while you act the martyr - and bad-mouth me as a bad father.
Enough is enough.
Do you remember I offered everything including the house and the car in the divorce? AND then you went
and perjured yourself by accusing me of rape. Do you remember I spent 48 hours in police custody? Do you
also remember the police let me go because they knew you lied?
Why did I keep quiet, I hear you say? Because there are real woman, real mothers out there that need the
protection of the law - even if I had to get jail for 15 years for the lies of some vindictive bitch.
So, we have an agreement on our divorce. Then you went and lied to the Observer newspaper giving them
your first allegations (rather than the public document), and you expect me to let you be? Now my eldest
daughter is 18, and you have to face up to the fact that I will no longer keep quiet and let you terrorize me
by coming to my work every time I get a job.
Tot hier toe en nie verder nie.
So to myself: Milton, as my gift to you this Xmas I absolve you of all feelings of guilt and release you with
full pardon. Walk away, feel proud and do not hesitate to tell the truth anymore.
Oh, one more thing, start
”Fathers for Justice” in Namibia to help those other poor fools who are being abused by women.

Brotherhood among us (1987) (2010-02-22 12:23)

Can t we all come and meet each other

And no matter what colour we may be
66
Be able to show we love one another
And then together we ll stand, you and me
The leaders of Tomorrow,
Planning for what is to come
Otherwise there will be lots of needless sorrow
Over killing which are quite dumb.
So come closer now and grab my hand
And we ll accept each other as brothers
And then together we ll be able to stand
To show our Father and Mothers
We want to plan for a common future
No matter what our race, colour or culture.

2.3 April

Fire Nampower MD! (2010-04-14 11:37)

This is completely unacceptable! Nampower loses money on political decisions to support Zimbabwe and we,
the Consumers, must now pay the price.
Not only should we reject this increase, we should demand the heads of the management at the company.
Nampower is looking at INCREASING ELECTRICITY by 35 %.
If the public have anything against this increase they can send an e-mail to the following address: -
mayame@ecb.org (ECB is the Electricity Control Board of Namibia)
Please note that this email should reach them before the 6th of April (next Tuesday).
Please forward this address to all Namibians in your address book.

World Consumer Rights Day 2010 - ’Our money, our rights’ (2010-04-14 11:37)

The global consumer movement will once again unite for a day of action on 15 March 2010. The theme for
World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) 2010 is Our money, our rights and will highlight consumer issues in
relation to financial services.
The Namibia Consumer Protection Group is presently working at attaining membership of Consumer Inter-
national.
Consumers International (CI) is the world federation of consumer groups that, working together with its
members, serves as the only independent and authoritative global voice for consumers.
With over 220 member organisations in 115 countries, CI is building a powerful international movement to
help protect and empower consumers everywhere.
Founded in 1960, the organisation is now needed more than ever. This modern movement is essential to
secure a fair safe and sustainable future for consumers in a global marketplace increasingly dominated by
international corporations.
Campaigns and programmes
CI campaigns on the international issues that matter to consumers everywhere. This means achieving real
changes in government policy and corporate behaviour while raising awareness of consumer rights and re-
sponsibilities.
In campaigning for the rights of consumers across the world, CI seeks to hold corporations to account and
67
demands government action to put consumer concerns first.
To this end, CI is committed to acting as a global watchdog: campaigning against any behaviour that threat-
ens, ignores or abuses the principles of consumer protection.
CI is doing this by:
Working with national member organisations to influence governments, highlight marketplace abuses and
raise grass roots support.
Pressing consumer concerns through official representation global bodies such as the United Nations (UN),
World Health Organization (WHO), International Organization of Standardization (ISO), and the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Raising awareness about purchasing choices through clear, engaging and accessible communication.

Nampower management should be fired (2010-04-14 11:38)

Namibian Economist - FRIDAY, 09 APRIL 2010 11:03

Written by Nyasha Nyaungwa
The Namibia Protection Group (NPG) has called for the sacking of the managing director of Nampower,
Paulinus Shilamba and his management. The call follows an announcement by the power utility last week
that it will be seeking a 35 % tariff increment from the Electricity Control Board of Namibia (ECB).
In an interview, founder of the NPG, Milton Louw said the proposed 35 % electricity increase was reason
enough for Shilamba to be fired.
Surely we can expect better management that realises the importance of electricity in the daily lives of our
people. This kind of increase will lead to a decrease in economic activity, and job losses. This is reason
enough to ask for his (Shilamba s) replacement.
The MD and his management must be tackled directly. They are responsible for the long-term planning
and if this has gone wrong they must take the blame. Pity this will probably not happen, Louw added.
Instead of increasing, electricity tariffs, Louw implored the government to urgently finalise the Kudu Gas
Project.
We must get the Kudu Gas Project going now. This project never seems to get off the ground. Second, let s
build a nuclear power station (explained fully in my book) that is a compromise on our supplying uranium,
Louw said.
Contacted for comment, officials at the ECB refused to comment on the matter. An official from the PR
department who refused to identify himself could only say that the issue of whether a 35 % increase will be
granted or not will be based on the outcome of the consultation process that is scheduled to end this Friday,
9 April.
If the majority of the stakeholders are against the proposed tariff increase, a compromise will have to be
reached as we basically have two groups to protect, namely: Nampower and the consumers, the official said.

How to get FB without accessing the site (your company blocked it) (2010-04-14 11:38)

*NOT an original post of Milton Louw*

Just to help those of us who are not so techie to get FB:
I follow it through a feed reader (in my case, Google Reader).
Besides the obvious benefits to this, one great side effect is that you never, ever see the output of applications
(e.g., quiz results) or the other useless noise like ”so-and-so is now friends with someone else you already
know”. The only drawback I’ve found is that you also don’t see notifications about photos that your friends
have uploaded. (You do see links that they post, however: just not Facebook-hosted photos. It’s a bizarre
68
omission.)
Anyway, I just had to explain to someone how to accomplish this feat, which made me realize how completely
non-obvious Facebook has made this. Finding these feeds is a complete pain in the ass. They’ve really gone
out of their way to hide the URLs you need to use.
So. You have to subscribe to three or four different feeds.
Posts: Find the Posts feed by going to [1]http://www.facebook.com/posted.php. On the upper right of the
page is a gray box, and at the bottom of that box is a link entitled ”My Friends’ Links” with the RSS logo
next to it. Copy that URL. Subscribe to it in your feed reader. This is the RSS URL for any links and
(external) images that your friends post.
Notes: Find the Notes feed by going to [2]http://www.facebook.com/notes.php and repeating the above.
This is the RSS URL for things that your friends post via the ”Notes” app, which is (I guess) the more
blog-like way of posting long things to Facebook.
Notifications: Find the Notifications feed by going to [3]http://www.facebook.com/notifications.php and
repeating the above. This is the RSS URL for things like ”so-and-so commented on your status”. You might
not care to subscribe to this one because you can get all of these kind of notifications in email.
Status Updates: This is the RSS URL for the ”What are you doing?” Twitter-like part of Facebook. This is
the one you probably care about, and it is trickier, because Facebook no longer links to the feed URL! Nice
one guys. You have to construct this URL by editing one of the above URLs. E.g., take the ”Notes” URL
and change the part of the URL that says ”friends notes” to ”friends status”. Keep the parts of the URL
before and after that, including the magic numbers at the end.

1. http://www.facebook.com/posted.php
2. http://www.facebook.com/notes.php
3. http://www.facebook.com/notifications.php

Crucifixion vs. Resurrection (2010-04-14 11:39)

Last night I had dream:

Since the crucifixion of Jesus there has been a family of one of his disciples that managed to take down his
cross and keep it hidden. This family stayed in the Middle East and found things becoming very difficult
during the time of the Ottoman Empire as they had become Christians. The Patriarch decided to entrust
their mission of looking after the cross to one of his most trusted friends to happened to be of the Muslim
faith.
The Muslim family has been keeping the secret of the safekeeping of the cross of Jesus since this time. Re-
cently, the descendants of the original family wished to have the cross returned to them. The two families
have always been close and a meeting was held to discuss the matter.
The head of the Muslim family was however not agreeable with the suggestion and kept putting up obstacles
to the return.
The Christian Patriarch discovered that since the time of the handover to the Muslim family, many unex-
plainable things had happened to the family and their success, riches and fame had increased tremendously.
Obviously, the task of looking after the cross had benefited this family and they would be reluctant to part
with it.
This difficulty caused problems with the relationship between the families and they became every distant
and mistrusting of one another.
After much thought, he realised the truth of the matter.
They were spending much time talking about the object representing the crucifixion, rather than recognising
it is the resurrection that is important.
69
My understanding of the dream: We spend too much time telling others about our suffering, rather
than rejoicing on how we overcame it.

No to leaderless consumer protest actions in Namibia (2010-04-19 09:30)

The NCPG is a non-profit Namibian organisation that campaigns for customer rights and focuses on illegal
and unethical behaviour by Namibian companies.
As a lobby group, we believe that we need to be involved with Government, State-Owned Enterprises,
Community-Based Organisations and the Media in our efforts to protect the rights of the consumer. In this
regard, we believe strongly in interaction to find solutions facing us all in Namibia.
During the past two weeks we have been calling for action against the Nampower proposal for a 35 % price
increase in the provision in Electricity. Our website and email newsletter started a petition that clearly states
our objections and is aimed at the Electricity Control Board who is the body responsible for deciding upon
the increase, or not. This was taken one step further by the We don’t accept the 35 % electricity price
increase from Nampower group on Facebook started by UK-based community activist Jade McClune.
It is with regret that we wish to inform the public through this statement, that we no longer can support
the unilateral decisions being proposed by Mr McClune for us here in Namibia to undertake street actions.
Such protest should be organised locally and have clear indications of who the leaders are, and these leaders
must be present to show they are in the forefront of such action.
As much as we desire attention to this cause, we cannot condone actions that are not clearly aimed at
addressing the problem, rather than becoming a platform for unrest. Thus, while as individuals we will
attend the planned protest march, as a lobby group we must insist that such actions have clearly defined
leadership that is present at such actions.
We assure all the consumers in Namibia that we will continue to work in your best interest by working
together with Government and business in ensuring your rights are respected.
We will continue the fight for consumers. It is Our Money, Our Rights .
Milton Louw
Founder

Open letter to Lodewyk van Graan, Chairperson of the ICT Alliance of Namibia
(2010-04-26 16:19)

Dear Lodewyk,
I am glad the ICT Alliance is eventually having its AGM tomorrow and I hope many people attend. But
please stop blaming me for all the mishaps at the organisation.
I quote
”We all have concerns regarding the upcoming AGM as we have been left in a lurch by the previous secretary
to a certain extent. Much of our documentation and records were lost as a result of what I believe to be malice
from our previous secretary after being implicated in unethical behaviour and who was duly terminated. We
have, since his departure been building up our records again and will to the best of our ability present an
accurate report on the past term of the Alliance. ”
You cut me off from the server at IIT before we even had a disciplinary hearing. Quite honestly, it was the
best thing you ever did. Even for me, having a hearing find me guilty in a job that has not paid me a salary
70
for a eight months was great!! It gave me a chance to write a book and now I head over 5,000 members of
the Namibia Consumer Protection Group on issues such as the Nampower increase.
So please, if you want to put blame somewhere, leave me out of it.
Malice (A desire to harm others or to see others suffer; extreme ill will or spite) is not something you would
ever find in me. That is what you did when you called Legalshield and got them to withdraw their job offer
the morning I was supposed to start. And even for that I am happy. By not taking the job, I now have 500
hectares in the Otjimbingwe district.
Kind regards, I will always be thankful to you for the opportunity to teach so many Namibians while at your
company,
Milton

”A noble heart cannot suspect in others the pettiness and malice that it has never felt. ”

2.4 May

Lodewyk van Graan responds to Open Letter (2010-05-24 13:19)

Dear Milton
Thank you kindly for your response. Congratulations on your new found success, and what seems to be a
positive future. You still however need to settle the past.
You are once again misrepresenting the facts for your own benefit. I ll leave it at that and not go into the
specifics. Should anyone at any time require us to provide proof of anything you did we shall be happy to do
so.
I have no clout with legal shield and believe them quite capable of making decisions about who they emply on
their own. Their decision might have been influenced by other factors such as the 2 court judgements against
you for, shall we say questionable business practices.
Our organisation and the IPPR still want these resolved but even after numerous attempts from us and the
IPPR to discuss this with you, you have always managed to avoid us and the messenger of the court finding
you.
I am very surprised to hear from you and very happy. Please be so kind as to provide me with your physical
address and more detail of the fixed assets you refer to so that we can settle the legal wrangling that you have
with both the IPPR and our organisation.
Regards
Lodewyk van Graan
(Note: Mr. Lodewyk van Graan is the chairperson of the ICT Alliance of Namibia. He also is the owner of
the Institute of Information Technology (IIT). The Alliance is the organisation that has not paid the salary,
while IIT is the company that advanced monies against the salary that was due. After Mr. van Graan indi-
cated to me that I cannot work for both organisations, I decided to work for the ICT Alliance and improved
the ICT environment. Unfortunately, Mr. van Graan as Chairperson of the Alliance as well as the owner of
the company making money from my tutoring, made this impossible.)

My reply:
Thank you Lodewyk.
I am a person who believes in really letting it all out. I am glad you wish to do so too.
Funny, the Messenger of the Court is using my data and they know my exact details - even have a nulla bona
signed because of the behaviour of creditors who use legalese to get debt written up. I am even advocating
a law to provide debt counselling to poor Namibians.
71
Be that as they may I look forward to making this a discussion about my past. Do yourself a favour though,
read my book. Everything you are alluding to is stated in it - including my debts and how they were occurred.
Perhaps also read my blog in this regard: [1]http://milton-louw.blogspot.com/2009/04/me-and-bad-d
ebts.html - - I will also now add the IIT problems with cheques signed by board members in your pres-
ence and the none payment of my salary - and of course the money that you got from the Ministry of ICT
to go to Brazil that has still not been explained. Feel free to rebuff and use the hearing report that states
ICT Alliance was acting illegally by not paying me - and this did not give me the right to act unethically.
I once again thank you for publicising more of the information. These things need to get out there.
Kind regards and look forward to your next correspondence
1. http://milton-louw.blogspot.com/2009/04/me-and-bad-debts.html

Are our Educational Institutions simply ripping us off ? (2010-05-24 13:52)

Charlotte writes to Consumer Protection group:

Are our Educational Institutions simply ripping us off ?? Is the Price of Education a Realistic reflection of
what we get for money? Are universities (and private institutes) in Namibia in it for the education or the
money?

[1][2]Private Institutions of Learning

Our constitution states:
(4) All persons shall have the right, at their own expense, to establish and to maintain private schools, or
colleges or other institutions of tertiary education:
provided that:
(a) such schools, colleges or institutions of tertiary education are registered with a Government department
in accordance with any law authorising and regulating such registration;
(b) the standards maintained by such schools, colleges or institutions of tertiary education are not inferior
to the standards maintained in comparable schools, colleges or institutions of tertiary education funded by
the State;
Tertiary education schools are mushrooming all over the country. They provide everything from art classes,
computer literacy and business skills. The problem is the standards are not very good, and most students
receive a qualification which is not worth the paper it is printed on. Let us look at a typical example and
call it the Tertiary Education Academy.
TertiaryEducation Academy(TEA) The owner TEA is a businessman without any qualification in ed-
ucation, after all, the Academy is a business and was started to make a profit. None of the staff members,
including the Principal, has any professional training or recognised educational qualification. The lecturers at
the Academy are also not qualified teachers. TEA offers the following courses: · Typing skills · Bookkeeping ·
Computer Literacy Microsoft Office · PC Engineering A+ and N+ · Software Programming The Academy
also offers Diplomas in Tourism, Public Relations, Business, Finance and Personnel Administration. The
Academy is a very profitable business and they owner is planning on offering further diploma courses. Great!
However, most of the students (and their parents) are not aware that the lecturers are not professionally
qualified. Furthermore, imagine the students dismay when they find out that none of these courses are
recognised by the Namibian Qualifications Authority. Even worse, the diploma courses are not worth more
than a Grade 12 according to the Universities.
72
Now before we start closing all these schools, institutes and academies, let us examine their role in our
country.
More and more students are completing their schooling and not finding place at the University or Polytechnic.
Their parents or care-givers cannot afford the study fees in other countries, so these students have to look
for employment. Having no marketable skill, they often do not find employment and become one of the
unemployed.
The private tertiary education institutes offer the students an opportunity to gather knowledge about business
and prepare them for gainful employment.
So what can we do?
We need to have a body that actively encourages that the standards maintained by such schools, colleges or
institutions of tertiary education are not inferior to the standards maintained in comparable schools, colleges
or institutions of tertiary education funded by the State . The NQA must be publicise the names of those
that are registered and meet their standards. Furthermore, the NQA must be given teeth to close down
those who do not meet the standards set within a period of time.
Note: Mr. Louw is the founder of the Namibia Consumer Protection Group but answers these submissions
in his personal capacity. Mr. Louw has been a trainer at IIT (Institute of Information Technology belonging
to Lodewyk van Graan) and the Secretary for the ICT Alliance of Namibia for a period of three years. Mr.
Louw is presently a part-time lecturer at the Polytechnic of Namibia.
1. http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7754137909221642247&postID=4902809418743845767
2. http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7754137909221642247&postID=4902809418743845767

(2010-05-26 16:53)

THE RELEVANCE OF BLACK ECONOMIC

EMPOWERMENT (BEE) TO THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY
AND LAW IN NAMIBIA
-
IS IT AN IMPERATIVE?
MIHE GAOMAB II
Windhoek, Namibia
26th May 2010
Mihe Gaomab II is the Secretary and CEO of the Namibia Competition Commission.
He is the Founding President of the Namibia Economic Society and remains an
honorary member. This Article was adapted from a NES speech presented at a
Seminar on BEE in South Africa organized by DELTACON, a BEE Auditing and
Verification Company on the 4th November 20009.
Madam Moderator and Facilitator
Distinguished Panelists
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good Morning and allow me from the onset to thank NES for making it possible
for me to present to you a contemporary yet crucial topic which is the Black
Economic Empowerment in Namibia. This presentation of this topic is pioneering
in the sense that I have been requested to present the relevance of BEE from a
Competition Policy and Law perspective.
Competition Policy and Law in Namibia
73
As you are aware, at independence, Namibia realized that it faces developmental
challenges based on an economy which was dualistic with high unemployment
and an economic structure which is enclaved and concentrated around few
sectors. The developmental challenges which are to reduce poverty, create
employment, reduce inequalities across individuals and regions thereby ensuring
balanced economic growth became a prime driver of focus for our government.
This developmental objectives have been addressed at varying levels to a large
extent by our government but government further realize that to ensure that this
developmental policy objectives are addressed, it needs reorientation or rather a
transformation of the economy. These are clearly espoused in the development
plans and Vision 2030. Hence the need also to create a regulatory environment
that would cater for private sector development. But more importantly an
institutional process that would assist for in ensuring a market based outcomes
that optimizes efficient allocation of our resources be it in form of capital and
labour. Such outcomes were already focused on private sector to expand its
manufacturing base through the development of white paper on industrial policy
in 1992, EPZ Act of 1995, Foreign Investment Act 1990, Manufacturing Incentives,
and host of other measures.
There were other policies done for other sectors as well is indeed commendable
on the part of our government. These include the promotion of SMEs through
enacting SME Policy in 1996, promoting employment through enactment of 2007
Labour Act, and looking after a broader based of us Namibians by drafting the
Transformation Economic and Social Framework (TESEF), especially those of us
that were historically lessened or deprived due to skewed policies of that time.
Now empirical data and experience points to the fact that by creating a
competitive economy especially among business or the private sector, a country
is able to develop faster, withstand external shocks, and even assist in rates of per
capita growth through employment and investment promotion. There are
documented facts that in countries such as Peru, Australia and South Africa, who
started off well with competition authorities in the 1990s, the impact assessments
shows that by having a competition law and policy as well as entrenched
competition culture, despite costs encountered, the economic benefits are
enormous with welfare implications for consumers, wage incomes and
employment creation leading to overall economic growth and government
revenue.
The question that still needs a lot of advocacy on is what is competition policy and
law. Competition Policy refers to a set of government measures that details the
strategic direction of the Ministry of Trade and Industry to regulate the
competitive behaviour of firms and business in the country. The government put
in place competition policy as far as the late 1990s to assist in reorientation and
re-structuring of the economy, with the ultimate aim to reorient our economy
towards higher growth as envisioned in Vision 2030.
The policy is thus a integral part of the overall macroeconomy of which our
Commissioners have been entrusted to use as a policy that is supportive and is
cross appealing across aspects such as trade measures, industrial, investment,
finance, planning, poverty reduction, employment, growth, and welfare
considerations.
Regulation of competition issues was introduced in 2003 through the Competition
Act of 2003 (Act No. 2 of 2003) in the country. In the past, competition issues in
Namibia were regulated by the Regulation of Monopolistic Conditions
74
Amendment Act, 1958 (Act 14 of 1958). However, this was a South African Act,
which was not applied in Namibia after independence.
The main overarching objective for the implementation of the Competition Law as
a competition policy instrument is to enhance the promotion and safeguarding of
competition. The urgency of having a competition policy and law rests
fundamentally on three key issues.
Firstly, Namibia s economic competitiveness still needs a lot of work on as it is
consistently ranked not among the top five of countries which are Botswana,
Tunisia, South Africa, Mauritius, and Egypt.
Secondly, although Namibia s competitiveness is characterise as a lower middle-
income country with an average per capita income of above US $3,000 and its
macroeconomic fundamentals are sound and proper, the Namibian economy is
characterised by a large, non-tradable sector (government services), and an
export oriented primary sector, mainly fisheries, agriculture and mining. Namibia
is also a small open economy heavily relying on imports, which are sometimes
subjected to distorted pricing, dumping of undesirable and defective products
and anti competitive behaviour.
The economy therefore remains enclaved and is structurally biased in terms of
service and production towards satisfying external markets rather than
domestically. Currently, there are no meaningful transformation with albeit lack
of forward and backward linkages between key sectors, an important
precondition for any restructuring from a micro economic point of view of
sectoral transformation and development. Here the need for a competition policy
becomes more urgent to regulate by law the competitive behaviour of industry,
firms and business in terms of ensuring a just, orderly, safe and optimal
competitive process in the economy.
Lastly, there is also general recognition by our government that economically
there has been instances of market failures i.e. private sector sometimes not
doing what it ought to do in terms of proper and orderly competitive conduct in
market place. There is anecdotal evidence that a market economy with a thriving
and robust private sector can be the key to economic growth and development.
This situation can hold long term sustainable increases in consumer welfare.
However, it is proven empirically that markets can fail because of anti-
competitive practices. Hence the need for developing competition policy that
creates a just orderly conduct of the market place allowing for a fair production
process through an efficient competitive process that benefits the customers and
the economy as a whole.
It also proven that an effective competition law and policy will encourage the use
of the most efficient methods of production, and will guide resources to the uses
society values most highly and can give rise to continuing incentives for
innovation to increase productivity and general efficiency of markets through
improved transparency of the rules that apply to business transactions.
The Namibian Competition Commission has been established in terms of the
Competition Act (Act No. 2 of 2003). It is tasked with promoting competitive
market conditions through investigation and prosecution of anti-competitive
activities, reviewing and approving mergers and exemption applications, and
disseminating information to businesses, consumers and other stakeholders.
Namibia s competition law not only covers the three major competition concerns
of anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominance, and anti-competitive
mergers, but it also takes into account the public interests provisions on
75
protecting consumers by safeguarding competitive prices and product choices as
well as promoting employment, investment and advancing the social and
economic welfare of Namibians. It also has special requirements of its economy,
which are the protection and promotion of small undertakings as well as
promoting a greater spread of ownership of historically advantaged persons.
The essence of decisions that NaCC is empowered to make is therefore analyzed,
investigated and adjudicated upon taking into account that there needs to a BEE
component to ensure localization and involvement of Namibians. This particularly
applies to Merger approvals of some odd 60 000 odd businesses in the country.
The Commission is cognizant however that at the time of writing, the
empowerment emphasis was on the word ownership. But we all know that the
word BEE should amply read BBEE to encompass broadness broad based. The
Competition Act of 2003 has been therefore futuristic to include the essence of
broadness by indicating the promotion of a greater spread of ownership of
historically advantaged persons.
We are considerate that TESEF will aim to ensure that all relevant definitions and
analytical interpretations will assist from a legal and policy point of view to clearly
articulate such terms and words from a BBEE implementation point of view, of
course using the SWAPO Manifesto, NDPs and Vision 2030 as guiding documents.
The reasons are that there is a lot of debate on the concept of Broad based BEE
within the context of the development of Southern Africa, notably in South Africa,
Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. There are increasingly a lot of controversy and
confusion regarding the term and the definition, nature, form, implementation
and conduct BBEEE has today, Namibia needs to avoid this by implementing our
Presidents call for having a well targeted BEE policy and law in the country that
aims to empower most Namibians (never mind the word Black) within the
mainstream in Namibia.
Madam Moderator
Is BEE an Imperative in Namibia, lets rather firstly look at the historical context
of BEE developments. The origin, imperative and the need for having a BEE policy
in place within Southern Africa can only be predicated on the basis that an
economy can only flourish if it can meet the needs of all its economic citizens,
people and their enterprises in a sustainable and developmental manner. Such
predicaments are evidenced in Benhabib, Jess and Mark M Speigel in The Role of
Human Capital in Economic Development: Evidence from Aggregate Cross Country
Data, , Journal of Monetary Economics, 1994, 34, 143-173.
The conclusions of this scientific research are broad ranging in the sense that
human and economic development can only be possible if the systems be it
economic, social, legal or political builds on the full potential of all persons and
communities across the length and breadth of a country.
The colonial historical context of the countries in Southern Africa in particular
South Africa and Namibia witnessed a period of protracted economic
development which even though created a necessary capital infrastructure which
is commendably in place today created a human capital that is largely unskilled,
uninformed and restricted from meaningful participation in the economy. The
historical context of appreciating human capital towards economic and
development shows however that where, human capital was suppressed or
alienated from the economic developmental process, it had a profound effect on
the standard of living of its people and status of developing an economy.
This is clearly proven empirically in Nathan Nunn (2007) where the effect of
76
human capital suppression and its long term associated effect on Africa s
development are well researched in Slavery, Institutional Development, and Long
Run Economic Growth in Africa . The evidence suggests that slave trade as a form
of human capital suppression had an adverse negative effect on economic
development in Africa. Of relevance will be to consult the Bertocchi, Graziella and
Fabio Canova (2002) titled Did Colonialism Matter for Growth in Africa where it
empirically explore the historical causes of Africa s development due to
Colonialism. European Economic Review, XLVI. Pages 1851 1871.
In Southern Africa, the assets, skills, positions and opportunities of millions of
people were directly and indirectly restricted either through some sociopolitical/
economic policy. Such a process created a capital accumulation process
where it confined the creation of wealth to a minority population and constricted
underdevelopment and poverty on the majority of the population. In South Africa
and Namibia for example, the result is an enclaved and skewed economic
structure that today, in essence, still excludes the vast majority of its inhabitants.
Imperative for BEE in Southern Africa
Madam Moderator
The basic vision of an economy that meets the needs of the people in a more
equitable manner goes back to the ANC s Freedom Charter of 1955 in South Africa
and the Swapo s Manifestos in the 1960 s of Namibia. Since the political
transformation in 1990 of Namibia and 1994 of South Africa, the respective
economies have undergone rapid consistent economic growth, albeit for the East
Asia Financial Crisis 1998/09 and the Global Economic and Financial Crisis in
2008/09.
Generally, these countries had profound macroeconomic stabilisation which has
provided largely a platform for a sustained economic growth rates. Compared to
pre 1990 s, both economies has become increasingly integrated into regional
(SADC and SACU) as well as global markets (EU, US, BRICS, East Asia, MECOSUR)
and both countries became a successful exporter of base metals and minerals
(Gold, Uranium, Diamonds etc) and for instance in case of South Africa,
manufactured goods and value-added services have proliferated.
Because of that sustained economic growth, in terms of GDP and GDP per capita,
Namibia is increasingly been viewed as a upper middle income country and South
Africa is now able to position itself as an emerging manufacturing economy.
Further, both economies have consistently put in place appropriate broad
economic strategies to transform the economies.
In Namibia, National Development Plan I, II, and III which serves as a five year
plans for economic development with an explicit target of around 7 % on average
according to the long term plan Vision 2030 was continuously emphasised. In
South Africa, the Reconstruction and Development Programme (1994) and GEAR
(1998) has been the focus of a broad strategies along with others such as the
Microeconomic Reform Strategy, Integrated Manufacturing Strategy and the
National Research and Development Strategy that has underpinned the South
African miracle of economic growth of close to around 5 %, a visible improvement
taking into account negative growth it encountered in the 1980 s.
Despite the sustained economic growth successes and a host of developmental
plans, policies and strategy introduced and implemented, there is another
statistical picture that paints a grim reality of entrenched income inequalities
characterising both economies. Once could argue that this pervasive inequality
act as a deterrent to future economic growth, economic development,
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employment creation and poverty eradication.
There is no denying the fact that there is still evidence of vast racial and gender
inequalities in the distribution of and access to wealth, income, skills and
employment. The end result is that these unequal income hinders economic
development and we all black and white alike loses out because our economies
continues to perform below its long run economic potential thus robbing us of
future growth dividends for our next generation and for ensuring a sustainable
growth path that we can be proud of as South Africans and Namibians.
This grim picture of the South African and Namibian situation shows further that
the economy has not re-oriented or transforms to cater for an absorption of the
population towards a majority segment. These could be because the economic
structures of both countries are still fundamentally rigid in the sense that it
neither has nor fundamentally transformed itself from the historical years of
skewedness in terms of resource endowment, entitlement, capital, positions and
access.
The virtual economic exclusion of ensuring the inclusion of the majority of the
population means that the economy is not growing on a broad based basis and
that any growth is only as a result of the hitherto structurally enclaved sectors
(mainly in agriculture, mining, fishing and to a lesser extent manufacturing) that
are not link on a backward and forward basis, to the rest of the economy to cater
for or absorb the economic potential of the population. Such an enclaved growth
further explains the susceptibility of the South African and Namibian economies
to the global and regional forces as evident from the recent global economic and
financial crisis as well as the economic effects of climate change.
Madam Moderator
Once could argue that the current turmoil of economic crisis in Namibia and
South Africa are over but still it does not bring comfort to justify that we need to
attain and sustain high levels of economic growth than what we have currently.
These high levels of economic growth unfortunately cannot be realized without
the presence of broad based participation of the majority of its population.
In order to grow and develop the South African and Namibian economy, there is a
need to empower on a broad and shared basis by encouraging through
appropriate mechanisms the economic and social re-engineering of wealth and
opportunities to the majority of the population.
Developments of BEE in South Africa and Namibia
The Black Economic Empowerment is and continues to be an unfolding process
happening in Namibia and South Africa. Despite its controversy, BEE seem to have
taken root in South Africa where a comprehensive and focussed strategy has been
drafted and consulted upon with stakeholders ironing out the economic analytics
of the day on BEE in 2004. The essence of that strategy rested on policy statement
and policy instruments that the government will consistently and predictably use
including the formalisation of partnerships and charters with the private sector;
the use of a balanced scorecard approach to gauging success; and an Act that
allows for the formalisation of guidelines and codes and the establishment of an
Advisory Council. In addition the introduction of an exclusive BEE fund as a
financial support measure were also introduced and aligned with the BEE strategy
developed in 2004.
At the current moment, BEE Policy in Namibia in the form of TESEF, the
Transformation Economic and Social Framework has been developed, and
consulted with stakeholders in 2008. This has been submitted to the Prime
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Minister s Office. TESEF in a sense learns from best practice employed by South
Africa and includes the formalization of partnerships and charters with the
private sector; the use of a balanced scorecard approach to gauging success.
From the experiences of South Africa and Namibia for example, the strategic
policy thrust of BEE are centered around six key pillars: (a) direct ownership,
management, control of enterprises and productive assets (b), SME enterprise
development (c) human resource and skill development, (d) achieving employment
equity, (e) preferential procurement or balanced tendering, (f) and corporate
social investment in social related programmes and community development
initiatives.
Controversy surrounding BEE?
There is no need to go into each of these pillars as you all are familiar with it and
are Masters of Trade when it comes to the development and selling of BEE as a
viable instrument. However as you are all aware, there are controversies
surrounding the concept, nature and implementation of BEE.
In terms of the concept, the word Black Economic Empowerment (or Swart
Ekonomiese Bemagtiging) is in essence just what the words encompass but it
seem to be termed divisive and ascribed to a zero sum game. This means that BEE
is been viewed as a means of an economic empowerment of those people
previously disadvantaged at the expense of the previously advantaged. Hence the
definition of ”black” that refers from a policy perspective to the previously
disadvantaged communities and individuals that were subjected mostly to
exclusion in the historical past are increasingly been seen as the Swart Gevaar .
The sensitivity of Wat gebeur met die Wittes as Swartes bemagtig word seem to
be the stereotype surrounding the word Black and what it means to economic
empowerment for the benefit of all South Africans and Namibians alike. I am here
to inform you that there is no need to despair, provided we follow certain
principles that I will outline further below.
The nature of BEE is also increasingly questioned. BEE is viewed as a front for
Black Elite Enrichment . There are notable worthy names that got rich through
the process of implementing BEE as legislation in South Africa and de facto in
Namibia. When those names are mentioned, there are negative sentiments
expressed that they are neo-whites or that they are a Black Skin in White Wool
and that they enriches themselves and are becoming billionares whereas the rest
of the country is still in a poverty trap. Unfortunately, there is an increased
realization that BEE can only take root if there is a Championing process on a
Black Empowerment process. It is unfortunately the first phase of a successful BEE
transformation. Take the example of WEE or White Economic Empowerment as
it were. WEE can be termed a success ceteris paribus if ascribed to capital
accumulation, assets, positions, skills of whites in South Africa and Namibia. The
essence of entrenching White Economic Empowerment or WEE with due respect
was quite self evident and its importance of capital accumulation and creation of
necessary infrastructure in South Africa and Namibia cannot at all be viewed as
throwing the baby away with bathwater .
South Africa and Namibia are having the best infrastructure in Southern Africa
(roads, rail, ports, power, etc) and seemed to integrate with ease regionally and
globally upon the era of political transformation in 1990 and 1994 respectively.
One can even argue that the current maintenance culture of such infrastructure
can be termed an apartheid dividend in terms of capital accumulation. I just
wish that such an apartheid dividend could have been applicable in terms of
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human resource accumulation across the Board of ensuring that more people
come onboard within the economy. This would have created a broader scope of
opening up doors for white and black empowerment processes that involves
Human Economic Empowerment or HEE. This could further had economic spinoffs
of job creation, rural development, urban renewal, poverty alleviation,
specific measures to empower both white and black, women and the disabled,
skills and management development, education, meaningful ownership, and
access to finance for households and for the purpose of conducting proper
business.
But all is not in vain. A current reality show that is where we are moving albeit
pain stakingly. Whites and Blacks are realizing that together we aim to implement
BEE but divided we aim to fail BEE. This standing together is compromised
however by how we are implementing BEE. Whites on the one hand are accused
of fronting or black renting the BEE process whereas Blacks or the Black Elites
are accused of quick bucks investment syndrome or fly by nite companies. But
all of us seem to realize that BEE in its current form is unsustainable. Although the
championing process that I support seem to have its narrow based impact, all
Whites and Blacks are realizing that BEE in its current form should be a transitory
process and that in order for it to be credible and have a desired broader impact
in terms of economic development it needs to transform into a Broad Based Black
Economic Empowerment (BBBEE).
The question that is now on everybody’s mindset is. Have we failed as economic
agents the concept of BEE? Does the latest development inform us that we are
not well equipped to get this vital process off the ground? Are we as two nations
now saying let s give up on the idea and start to look at alternatives of
empowering our people?
The above leads me to enter a dangerous terrain that of psycholising BEE. We
all know that we still a need a process to empower people and I mean more
people. Hence the concept BEE is as highly relevant as it was 10 years ago. We
just need to realize that just like any economy goes into stages of development,
BEE has come to a point where its relevance has actually undergone
metamorphosis or transformation.
The transformation to the word Black is Human . BEE in its transformative
form is not it that it aims to separate Whites from Blacks but in my view it is been
used just to ensure identity of purpose, that is to empower those left out during
the apartheid and colonial times. It should not also be used to set-off blacks
against whites but for a common economic good for us all.
Madam Moderator
In my view economic empowerment is about developing mechanisms, pathways
and people so that access to the main stream of the economy is a real possibility.
It involves a win-win situation for both blacks and whites and should not be
treated as a traditional zero sum game. By that I meant that there should be
recognition of the dual need not only to encourage and nurture the participation
of black persons or the previously disadvantaged in the economy, but should also
be accommodative enough of allowing economic room for white or the originally
advantaged to together work under some economic code of conduct and social
contract to expand the economic cake of our economies. This can only be realized
if a synergy is created that will retain the experience, expertise and knowledge of
the white person but also to augment those traits in the black person.
These economic codes of conduct should be underpinned by economic structures
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that should be created to ensure broad based economic empowerment. One
notable deal of BBBEE in Namibia was the Old Mutual group that has signed a BEE
deal worth N $308 million (R308 million) with a broad-based group on behalf of its
own operation, as well as Nedbank Namibia and Mutual & Federal Namibia. The
transaction includes employees, strategic business partners, distributors, trade
union members and their families, women’s organisations and church groups.
Others in Mining and Telecoms Industries launched a BEE procurement policy.
This was done without any legislation backing it, but out of the need identified by
the company to drive empowerment within the country. The Tender Board Act is
recently reviewed to look into preferential treatment of locals and small business.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry is busy on a strategic approach to reserve
certain petty retailing and transport avenues for locals. There are other measures
which for brevity sake I won t mentioned here but which points to the fact that
there is growing realisation of BEE inspired efforts to ensure local ownership and
involvement on part of government and private sector sectors alike.
Is BEE Still Relevant in Modern Times?
The implementation process of the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment
(BBBEE) remains however not without its faults. There are proponents that argue
that the nature and the participation of those involved make it narrower in
disguise.
BBEEE should never be seen as a short term gain but as a medium to long-term
process that will only work if sound corporate governance, business and
economic principles are followed. Artificial means on both White and Black to hi
jack the noble goal of broad empowerment can be beneficial for the parties
involved in terms of capital and human resource gain in the short term but I can
guarantee you that it would be detrimental in the medium to long term for any
economy that desperately needs higher levels of sustained local economic growth
and development. It is important to look for long lasting solutions on BBBEE
rather than ones of a quick fix nature.
The role of mentorship and skills transfer cannot be overemphasized in the path
to broad based empowerment. Many companies afford these tremendous
opportunities to young, newly qualified black managers. The value of experience,
coaching, mentoring and hands-on tactics should not be discounted. It is
noteworthy that certain international companies in South Africa and Namibia
have also engaged in models of in-house mentorship and incubation of fledgling
black entrepreneurs in their field. This model ensures long-term sustainability
through strong management and entrepreneurial spirit being built. Special
emphasis must also be placed on training, upgrading and real participation in
ownership to de-lock the mind on easy gains but to engage consistently in a
Road Less Travelled .
The source of broad based BEE for the majority of Namibians and South Africans
will not be found for the future in the formal private and public sectors. There
seem to be limits on their growth potential given the current regional and global
constraints. There is need to shift the mindset in Namibia and South Africa of
innovating and creating ideas within the Small and Medium Enterprises sector to
make it grow as it is the only sector that is responsive to advancing technologies
in the knowledge service orientation, corporate social investment oriented
avenues, renewable energy to tackle climate change and home grown or creation
of indigenous products such as arts, crafts, health products, agro processed
products.
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These alternative economic activities which are entrepreneurial such as the SME s
must be fostered with finding an expansive domestic and export markets as it is
the only enterprise development in the SME sector which can have multiplier
effects and gauged by many to be the most significant future contributor to job
creation and economic growth in the country. SME s role is still under emphasised
in Namibia and to a lesser extent in South Africa but it is the only sector in
Southern Africa which is cross cutting across sectors such as mining, tourism,
leisure, manufacturing, etc and can assist in absorbing a majority of the excluded
population into the economic sphere of Namibia
But for such a sector to take off, there is a need to develop better mechanisms of
ensured access to finance, entrepreneurial skills, values, talent and culture and
Government and Private Sector must put heads together and spark the liveliness
of this sector for it to take off properly.
To achieve a credible and effective BEE in Namibia and South Africa which is
broad based and does address the real empowerment of those to be
empowered, it is crucial to structure BEE in our economies. BEE needs to be
implemented within a framework where a consistency of approach, appropriate
flexibility to respond to different economic and enterprise conditions and the
ability to measure the progress on BEE implementation has to be fostered.
In terms of a consistency of approach, it is crucial that when ownership is
transferred to black ownership, that there needs to be innovative ways of
financing the empowerment deals that will support effective BEE transactions.
The companies that want to transact BEE with its empowered partner needs to
realize that they must first employ best practice finance models for BEE
transactions?
BEE ownership transfer deals does not entail one-size-fits-all approach but
needs to be done taking a consistent approach in terms of best practice
implementation. The various types of finance mechanisms that are available to
successfully achieve sustainable empowerment shareholding which includes
Government funding, Share schemes, Grants and incentives; Debt finance, Project
finance, Joint ventures, and Venture capital need to consider on the nature and
type of a BEE deal taking into account what kind of players are involved as well.
Of all this type of finance mechanisms, South African experience and to a lesser
extent in Namibia the consideration of debt finance seem to be the most logical
and attractive options which is easily implemented in terms of BEE deals. It
involves a process whereby the empowerment partners because of their inability
to have ready capital available to transact the BEE, incurs a loan structured in
such a way to repay such a loan or debt from cash flows generated by the
company. Such an approach involves a process where massive wealth is
transferred to the empowerment partners leading to a possibility of black
fronting, and transfer of assets without real value addition.
When other broad BEE players are brought on board to make it look broad based
such as Women and Trade Unions and regional or provincial players, such
approach does not necessarily solve the problem of black fronting and seem to be
broad in disguise and does not really lead to real empowerment but again to
those who have the transaction right to the BEE deal. The debt financed BEE
transaction deals which are currently still been considered is not in my view a
sustainable empowerment mechanism as it invokes the moral hazard problem as
it sounds more like sharing in money on a silver platter without any
contribution . Further, the partners are trapped in deals that take up to 20 years
82
to realize dividends, if at all. The debt finance deals are also supplemented by sole
vendor financing (the white BEE partner) and issue of share options and grants to
its black empowerment partner. Through this approach, debt is then raised
against the shares the BEE partner possess in the company and hence the deal is
more structured at arm s length basis whereby the BEE partner is passively
involved in the growth, value addition and profitability of the company.
Increasingly, experiences with BEE transactions are showing that empowerment
partners need to at least bring some capital to ensure BEE transactions to work
effectively. Hence, various new options are considered that BEE partners in
Namibia and South Africa can take advantage of. One attractive option is equity
financing where a BEE partner needs to find actively an investor as partner to
start its business, normally a SME. There are two main potential categories that
can make equity financing successful which also bring in an element of broad
based economic empowerment. These are (a) venture capitalist or risk-loving
equity funding companies, (b) or engaging employee, women and/or trade union
investors. The real value addition of these broad based options is to ensure that
these partners are entitled to contribute in some sort towards the empowerment
process. It does not always have to be money but can be also goodwill and
commitment. Women Associations for example can be made mandatory as a
empowerment partner to train a number of woman in finance skills per annum
whereas trade unions will be required to contribute to work ethic, efficiency and
productivity of a company through shared performance assessment and
performance policy towards increased profitability of all.
Another innovative option involves debt financing raised against its assets and not
shares as it is traditionally used to be. Given that BEE partners do not have
sufficient assets to transact BEE, white BEE partner can sell assets to its BEE black
partner which in turn borrows money from the bank against those assets to pay
for them. This model called also the leveraging model represents a robust
sustainable long term (usually 10 to 20 years) process where moral hazard
problems are avoided and where both the financier (bank), vendor (white BEE
partner) and empowerment partner share in the risk and the growth and
development of the company. This kind of models I am to learn are proven to be
more attractive in South Africa as success models among SME s and where large
companies such as Anglo American and Ingwe, an empowerment partner has
financed it successfully.
With regard to appropriate flexibility to respond to different economic and
enterprise conditions, BEE companies need to realize that they are confronted by
changing domestic, regional and global economic, political and social factors that
can impinge on the success of their enterprise and hence be mindful of those
developments. BEE companies need to successfully build an affirmative
procurement policy to create a sustainable empowerment initiative in their
company. Concerns such as whether your company is BEE compliant, or sourcing
its goods and supplies from BEE suppliers adhering to proper ethical guidelines
are matters that requires immediate attention if the BEE partners wants to make
success of its business.
Madam Moderator
Another issue concerns whether the BEE Company applies effective employment
equity plan, policies and programmes that promotes efficient human resource
development and growth in their entity and is aligned to the affirmative action act
of the country? Here the success to Broad Base BEE is Skills, Skills and &more
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Skills. BEE Companies need to be conscious of treating skills development as the
foundation of real broad base BEE. BEE companies need to continuously answer
questions such as is there an accelerated skills development and training
initiatives that further enhance the company of BEE goals. Has the BEE company
master the appropriate techniques to effectively build a social investment and
enterprise development policy for its stakeholders are also another matter that
BEE enterprises must take into account to respond adequately to any socially
developmental activity such as an HIV/Aids prevention and invest wisely for
health retention of its own staff for example.
In conclusion, experience so far on BEE Structuring shows that the current debt
financing of BEE transactions is not successful and BEE companies are under
renewed pressure to actively transact their BEE deals through private equity
capital. Such is the urgency of executing BEE transactions that the traditional
private equity industry has virtually been turned into a BEE financing industry in
South Africa for example and Namibia is actually following that example. This type
of financing represents a most noble approach towards structuring BEE in
Namibia and South Africa and needs to be encouraged especially as funding
mechanism for the emerging and fast growing SMEs.
To end on a positive note, Broad based BEE is a must taking into account similar
success in Malaysia to address this skewed perpetuating socio-economic situation
in the 1960 s. In Malaysia, a concerted policy called Bumaputra Malays to
address the indigenisation of Malays from the expatriate Chinese was also
implemented to ensure development of the economic infrastructure in which the
Malays find themselves in to ensure increased opportunities in terms of positions,
assets and income.

The relevance of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) to the implementation of com-

petition policy and law in Namibia (2010-05-26 16:54)

Windhoek, Namibia
26th May 2010

Mihe Gaomab II is the Secretary and CEO of the Namibia Competition Commission. He is the Found-
ing President of the Namibia Economic Society and remains an honorary member. This Article was adapted
from a NES speech presented at a Seminar on BEE in South Africa organized by DELTACON, a BEE Au-
diting and Verification Company on the 4th November 20009.
Madam Moderator and Facilitator
Distinguished Panelists
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good Morning and allow me from the onset to thank NES for making it possible
for me to present to you a contemporary yet crucial topic which is the Black
Economic Empowerment in Namibia. This presentation of this topic is pioneering
in the sense that I have been requested to present the relevance of BEE from a
Competition Policy and Law perspective.
Competition Policy and Law in Namibia
As you are aware, at independence, Namibia realized that it faces developmental
challenges based on an economy which was dualistic with high unemployment
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and an economic structure which is enclaved and concentrated around few
sectors. The developmental challenges which are to reduce poverty, create
employment, reduce inequalities across individuals and regions thereby ensuring
balanced economic growth became a prime driver of focus for our government.
This developmental objectives have been addressed at varying levels to a large
extent by our government but government further realize that to ensure that this
developmental policy objectives are addressed, it needs reorientation or rather a
transformation of the economy. These are clearly espoused in the development
plans and Vision 2030. Hence the need also to create a regulatory environment
that would cater for private sector development. But more importantly an
institutional process that would assist for in ensuring a market based outcomes
that optimizes efficient allocation of our resources be it in form of capital and
labour. Such outcomes were already focused on private sector to expand its
manufacturing base through the development of white paper on industrial policy
in 1992, EPZ Act of 1995, Foreign Investment Act 1990, Manufacturing Incentives,
and host of other measures.
There were other policies done for other sectors as well is indeed commendable
on the part of our government. These include the promotion of SMEs through
enacting SME Policy in 1996, promoting employment through enactment of 2007
Labour Act, and looking after a broader based of us Namibians by drafting the
Transformation Economic and Social Framework (TESEF), especially those of us
that were historically lessened or deprived due to skewed policies of that time.
Now empirical data and experience points to the fact that by creating a
competitive economy especially among business or the private sector, a country
is able to develop faster, withstand external shocks, and even assist in rates of per
capita growth through employment and investment promotion. There are
documented facts that in countries such as Peru, Australia and South Africa, who
started off well with competition authorities in the 1990s, the impact assessments
shows that by having a competition law and policy as well as entrenched
competition culture, despite costs encountered, the economic benefits are
enormous with welfare implications for consumers, wage incomes and
employment creation leading to overall economic growth and government
revenue.
The question that still needs a lot of advocacy on is what is competition policy and
law. Competition Policy refers to a set of government measures that details the
strategic direction of the Ministry of Trade and Industry to regulate the
competitive behaviour of firms and business in the country. The government put
in place competition policy as far as the late 1990s to assist in reorientation and
re-structuring of the economy, with the ultimate aim to reorient our economy
towards higher growth as envisioned in Vision 2030.
The policy is thus a integral part of the overall macroeconomy of which our
Commissioners have been entrusted to use as a policy that is supportive and is
cross appealing across aspects such as trade measures, industrial, investment,
finance, planning, poverty reduction, employment, growth, and welfare
considerations.
Regulation of competition issues was introduced in 2003 through the Competition
Act of 2003 (Act No. 2 of 2003) in the country. In the past, competition issues in
Namibia were regulated by the Regulation of Monopolistic Conditions
Amendment Act, 1958 (Act 14 of 1958). However, this was a South African Act,
which was not applied in Namibia after independence.
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The main overarching objective for the implementation of the Competition Law as
a competition policy instrument is to enhance the promotion and safeguarding of
competition. The urgency of having a competition policy and law rests
fundamentally on three key issues.
Firstly, Namibia s economic competitiveness still needs a lot of work on as it is
consistently ranked not among the top five of countries which are Botswana,
Tunisia, South Africa, Mauritius, and Egypt.
Secondly, although Namibia s competitiveness is characterise as a lower middle-
income country with an average per capita income of above US $3,000 and its
macroeconomic fundamentals are sound and proper, the Namibian economy is
characterised by a large, non-tradable sector (government services), and an
export oriented primary sector, mainly fisheries, agriculture and mining. Namibia
is also a small open economy heavily relying on imports, which are sometimes
subjected to distorted pricing, dumping of undesirable and defective products
and anti competitive behaviour.
The economy therefore remains enclaved and is structurally biased in terms of
service and production towards satisfying external markets rather than
domestically. Currently, there are no meaningful transformation with albeit lack
of forward and backward linkages between key sectors, an important
precondition for any restructuring from a micro economic point of view of
sectoral transformation and development. Here the need for a competition policy
becomes more urgent to regulate by law the competitive behaviour of industry,
firms and business in terms of ensuring a just, orderly, safe and optimal
competitive process in the economy.
Lastly, there is also general recognition by our government that economically
there has been instances of market failures i.e. private sector sometimes not
doing what it ought to do in terms of proper and orderly competitive conduct in
market place. There is anecdotal evidence that a market economy with a thriving
and robust private sector can be the key to economic growth and development.
This situation can hold long term sustainable increases in consumer welfare.
However, it is proven empirically that markets can fail because of anti-
competitive practices. Hence the need for developing competition policy that
creates a just orderly conduct of the market place allowing for a fair production
process through an efficient competitive process that benefits the customers and
the economy as a whole.
It also proven that an effective competition law and policy will encourage the use
of the most efficient methods of production, and will guide resources to the uses
society values most highly and can give rise to continuing incentives for
innovation to increase productivity and general efficiency of markets through
improved transparency of the rules that apply to business transactions.
The Namibian Competition Commission has been established in terms of the
Competition Act (Act No. 2 of 2003). It is tasked with promoting competitive
market conditions through investigation and prosecution of anti-competitive
activities, reviewing and approving mergers and exemption applications, and
disseminating information to businesses, consumers and other stakeholders.
Namibia s competition law not only covers the three major competition concerns
of anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominance, and anti-competitive
mergers, but it also takes into account the public interests provisions on
protecting consumers by safeguarding competitive prices and product choices as
well as promoting employment, investment and advancing the social and
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economic welfare of Namibians. It also has special requirements of its economy,
which are the protection and promotion of small undertakings as well as
promoting a greater spread of ownership of historically advantaged persons.
The essence of decisions that NaCC is empowered to make is therefore analyzed,
investigated and adjudicated upon taking into account that there needs to a BEE
component to ensure localization and involvement of Namibians. This particularly
applies to Merger approvals of some odd 60 000 odd businesses in the country.
The Commission is cognizant however that at the time of writing, the
empowerment emphasis was on the word ownership. But we all know that the
word BEE should amply read BBEE to encompass broadness broad based. The
Competition Act of 2003 has been therefore futuristic to include the essence of
broadness by indicating the promotion of a greater spread of ownership of
historically advantaged persons.
We are considerate that TESEF will aim to ensure that all relevant definitions and
analytical interpretations will assist from a legal and policy point of view to clearly
articulate such terms and words from a BBEE implementation point of view, of
course using the SWAPO Manifesto, NDPs and Vision 2030 as guiding documents.
The reasons are that there is a lot of debate on the concept of Broad based BEE
within the context of the development of Southern Africa, notably in South Africa,
Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. There are increasingly a lot of controversy and
confusion regarding the term and the definition, nature, form, implementation
and conduct BBEEE has today, Namibia needs to avoid this by implementing our
Presidents call for having a well targeted BEE policy and law in the country that
aims to empower most Namibians (never mind the word Black) within the
mainstream in Namibia.
Madam Moderator
Is BEE an Imperative in Namibia, lets rather firstly look at the historical context
of BEE developments. The origin, imperative and the need for having a BEE policy
in place within Southern Africa can only be predicated on the basis that an
economy can only flourish if it can meet the needs of all its economic citizens,
people and their enterprises in a sustainable and developmental manner. Such
predicaments are evidenced in Benhabib, Jess and Mark M Speigel in The Role of
Human Capital in Economic Development: Evidence from Aggregate Cross Country
Data, , Journal of Monetary Economics, 1994, 34, 143-173.
The conclusions of this scientific research are broad ranging in the sense that
human and economic development can only be possible if the systems be it
economic, social, legal or political builds on the full potential of all persons and
communities across the length and breadth of a country.
The colonial historical context of the countries in Southern Africa in particular
South Africa and Namibia witnessed a period of protracted economic
development which even though created a necessary capital infrastructure which
is commendably in place today created a human capital that is largely unskilled,
uninformed and restricted from meaningful participation in the economy. The
historical context of appreciating human capital towards economic and
development shows however that where, human capital was suppressed or
alienated from the economic developmental process, it had a profound effect on
the standard of living of its people and status of developing an economy.
This is clearly proven empirically in Nathan Nunn (2007) where the effect of
human capital suppression and its long term associated effect on Africa s
development are well researched in Slavery, Institutional Development, and Long
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Run Economic Growth in Africa . The evidence suggests that slave trade as a form
of human capital suppression had an adverse negative effect on economic
development in Africa. Of relevance will be to consult the Bertocchi, Graziella and
Fabio Canova (2002) titled Did Colonialism Matter for Growth in Africa where it
empirically explore the historical causes of Africa s development due to
Colonialism. European Economic Review, XLVI. Pages 1851 1871.
In Southern Africa, the assets, skills, positions and opportunities of millions of
people were directly and indirectly restricted either through some sociopolitical/
economic policy. Such a process created a capital accumulation process
where it confined the creation of wealth to a minority population and constricted
underdevelopment and poverty on the majority of the population. In South Africa
and Namibia for example, the result is an enclaved and skewed economic
structure that today, in essence, still excludes the vast majority of its inhabitants.
Imperative for BEE in Southern Africa
Madam Moderator
The basic vision of an economy that meets the needs of the people in a more
equitable manner goes back to the ANC s Freedom Charter of 1955 in South Africa
and the Swapo s Manifestos in the 1960 s of Namibia. Since the political
transformation in 1990 of Namibia and 1994 of South Africa, the respective
economies have undergone rapid consistent economic growth, albeit for the East
Asia Financial Crisis 1998/09 and the Global Economic and Financial Crisis in
2008/09.
Generally, these countries had profound macroeconomic stabilisation which has
provided largely a platform for a sustained economic growth rates. Compared to
pre 1990 s, both economies has become increasingly integrated into regional
(SADC and SACU) as well as global markets (EU, US, BRICS, East Asia, MECOSUR)
and both countries became a successful exporter of base metals and minerals
(Gold, Uranium, Diamonds etc) and for instance in case of South Africa,
manufactured goods and value-added services have proliferated.
Because of that sustained economic growth, in terms of GDP and GDP per capita,
Namibia is increasingly been viewed as a upper middle income country and South
Africa is now able to position itself as an emerging manufacturing economy.
Further, both economies have consistently put in place appropriate broad
economic strategies to transform the economies.
In Namibia, National Development Plan I, II, and III which serves as a five year
plans for economic development with an explicit target of around 7 % on average
according to the long term plan Vision 2030 was continuously emphasised. In
South Africa, the Reconstruction and Development Programme (1994) and GEAR
(1998) has been the focus of a broad strategies along with others such as the
Microeconomic Reform Strategy, Integrated Manufacturing Strategy and the
National Research and Development Strategy that has underpinned the South
African miracle of economic growth of close to around 5 %, a visible improvement
taking into account negative growth it encountered in the 1980 s.
Despite the sustained economic growth successes and a host of developmental
plans, policies and strategy introduced and implemented, there is another
statistical picture that paints a grim reality of entrenched income inequalities
characterising both economies. Once could argue that this pervasive inequality
act as a deterrent to future economic growth, economic development,
employment creation and poverty eradication.
There is no denying the fact that there is still evidence of vast racial and gender
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inequalities in the distribution of and access to wealth, income, skills and
employment. The end result is that these unequal income hinders economic
development and we all black and white alike loses out because our economies
continues to perform below its long run economic potential thus robbing us of
future growth dividends for our next generation and for ensuring a sustainable
growth path that we can be proud of as South Africans and Namibians.
This grim picture of the South African and Namibian situation shows further that
the economy has not re-oriented or transforms to cater for an absorption of the
population towards a majority segment. These could be because the economic
structures of both countries are still fundamentally rigid in the sense that it
neither has nor fundamentally transformed itself from the historical years of
skewedness in terms of resource endowment, entitlement, capital, positions and
access.
The virtual economic exclusion of ensuring the inclusion of the majority of the
population means that the economy is not growing on a broad based basis and
that any growth is only as a result of the hitherto structurally enclaved sectors
(mainly in agriculture, mining, fishing and to a lesser extent manufacturing) that
are not link on a backward and forward basis, to the rest of the economy to cater
for or absorb the economic potential of the population. Such an enclaved growth
further explains the susceptibility of the South African and Namibian economies
to the global and regional forces as evident from the recent global economic and
financial crisis as well as the economic effects of climate change.
Madam Moderator
Once could argue that the current turmoil of economic crisis in Namibia and
South Africa are over but still it does not bring comfort to justify that we need to
attain and sustain high levels of economic growth than what we have currently.
These high levels of economic growth unfortunately cannot be realized without
the presence of broad based participation of the majority of its population.
In order to grow and develop the South African and Namibian economy, there is a
need to empower on a broad and shared basis by encouraging through
appropriate mechanisms the economic and social re-engineering of wealth and
opportunities to the majority of the population.
Developments of BEE in South Africa and Namibia
The Black Economic Empowerment is and continues to be an unfolding process
happening in Namibia and South Africa. Despite its controversy, BEE seem to have
taken root in South Africa where a comprehensive and focussed strategy has been
drafted and consulted upon with stakeholders ironing out the economic analytics
of the day on BEE in 2004. The essence of that strategy rested on policy statement
and policy instruments that the government will consistently and predictably use
including the formalisation of partnerships and charters with the private sector;
the use of a balanced scorecard approach to gauging success; and an Act that
allows for the formalisation of guidelines and codes and the establishment of an
Advisory Council. In addition the introduction of an exclusive BEE fund as a
financial support measure were also introduced and aligned with the BEE strategy
developed in 2004.
At the current moment, BEE Policy in Namibia in the form of TESEF, the
Transformation Economic and Social Framework has been developed, and
consulted with stakeholders in 2008. This has been submitted to the Prime
Minister s Office. TESEF in a sense learns from best practice employed by South
Africa and includes the formalization of partnerships and charters with the
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private sector; the use of a balanced scorecard approach to gauging success.
From the experiences of South Africa and Namibia for example, the strategic
policy thrust of BEE are centered around six key pillars: (a) direct ownership,
management, control of enterprises and productive assets (b), SME enterprise
development (c) human resource and skill development, (d) achieving employment
equity, (e) preferential procurement or balanced tendering, (f) and corporate
social investment in social related programmes and community development
initiatives.
Controversy surrounding BEE?
There is no need to go into each of these pillars as you all are familiar with it and
are Masters of Trade when it comes to the development and selling of BEE as a
viable instrument. However as you are all aware, there are controversies
surrounding the concept, nature and implementation of BEE.
In terms of the concept, the word Black Economic Empowerment (or Swart
Ekonomiese Bemagtiging) is in essence just what the words encompass but it
seem to be termed divisive and ascribed to a zero sum game. This means that BEE
is been viewed as a means of an economic empowerment of those people
previously disadvantaged at the expense of the previously advantaged. Hence the
definition of ”black” that refers from a policy perspective to the previously
disadvantaged communities and individuals that were subjected mostly to
exclusion in the historical past are increasingly been seen as the Swart Gevaar .
The sensitivity of Wat gebeur met die Wittes as Swartes bemagtig word seem to
be the stereotype surrounding the word Black and what it means to economic
empowerment for the benefit of all South Africans and Namibians alike. I am here
to inform you that there is no need to despair, provided we follow certain
principles that I will outline further below.
The nature of BEE is also increasingly questioned. BEE is viewed as a front for
Black Elite Enrichment . There are notable worthy names that got rich through
the process of implementing BEE as legislation in South Africa and de facto in
Namibia. When those names are mentioned, there are negative sentiments
expressed that they are neo-whites or that they are a Black Skin in White Wool
and that they enriches themselves and are becoming billionares whereas the rest
of the country is still in a poverty trap. Unfortunately, there is an increased
realization that BEE can only take root if there is a Championing process on a
Black Empowerment process. It is unfortunately the first phase of a successful BEE
transformation. Take the example of WEE or White Economic Empowerment as
it were. WEE can be termed a success ceteris paribus if ascribed to capital
accumulation, assets, positions, skills of whites in South Africa and Namibia. The
essence of entrenching White Economic Empowerment or WEE with due respect
was quite self evident and its importance of capital accumulation and creation of
necessary infrastructure in South Africa and Namibia cannot at all be viewed as
throwing the baby away with bathwater .
South Africa and Namibia are having the best infrastructure in Southern Africa
(roads, rail, ports, power, etc) and seemed to integrate with ease regionally and
globally upon the era of political transformation in 1990 and 1994 respectively.
One can even argue that the current maintenance culture of such infrastructure
can be termed an apartheid dividend in terms of capital accumulation. I just
wish that such an apartheid dividend could have been applicable in terms of
human resource accumulation across the Board of ensuring that more people
come onboard within the economy. This would have created a broader scope of
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opening up doors for white and black empowerment processes that involves
Human Economic Empowerment or HEE. This could further had economic spinoffs
of job creation, rural development, urban renewal, poverty alleviation,
specific measures to empower both white and black, women and the disabled,
skills and management development, education, meaningful ownership, and
access to finance for households and for the purpose of conducting proper
business.
But all is not in vain. A current reality show that is where we are moving albeit
pain stakingly. Whites and Blacks are realizing that together we aim to implement
BEE but divided we aim to fail BEE. This standing together is compromised
however by how we are implementing BEE. Whites on the one hand are accused
of fronting or black renting the BEE process whereas Blacks or the Black Elites
are accused of quick bucks investment syndrome or fly by nite companies. But
all of us seem to realize that BEE in its current form is unsustainable. Although the
championing process that I support seem to have its narrow based impact, all
Whites and Blacks are realizing that BEE in its current form should be a transitory
process and that in order for it to be credible and have a desired broader impact
in terms of economic development it needs to transform into a Broad Based Black
Economic Empowerment (BBBEE).
The question that is now on everybody’s mindset is. Have we failed as economic
agents the concept of BEE? Does the latest development inform us that we are
not well equipped to get this vital process off the ground? Are we as two nations
now saying let s give up on the idea and start to look at alternatives of
empowering our people?
The above leads me to enter a dangerous terrain that of psycholising BEE. We
all know that we still a need a process to empower people and I mean more
people. Hence the concept BEE is as highly relevant as it was 10 years ago. We
just need to realize that just like any economy goes into stages of development,
BEE has come to a point where its relevance has actually undergone
metamorphosis or transformation.
The transformation to the word Black is Human . BEE in its transformative
form is not it that it aims to separate Whites from Blacks but in my view it is been
used just to ensure identity of purpose, that is to empower those left out during
the apartheid and colonial times. It should not also be used to set-off blacks
against whites but for a common economic good for us all.
Madam Moderator
In my view economic empowerment is about developing mechanisms, pathways
and people so that access to the main stream of the economy is a real possibility.
It involves a win-win situation for both blacks and whites and should not be
treated as a traditional zero sum game. By that I meant that there should be
recognition of the dual need not only to encourage and nurture the participation
of black persons or the previously disadvantaged in the economy, but should also
be accommodative enough of allowing economic room for white or the originally
advantaged to together work under some economic code of conduct and social
contract to expand the economic cake of our economies. This can only be realized
if a synergy is created that will retain the experience, expertise and knowledge of
the white person but also to augment those traits in the black person.
These economic codes of conduct should be underpinned by economic structures
that should be created to ensure broad based economic empowerment. One
notable deal of BBBEE in Namibia was the Old Mutual group that has signed a BEE
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deal worth N $308 million (R308 million) with a broad-based group on behalf of its
own operation, as well as Nedbank Namibia and Mutual & Federal Namibia. The
transaction includes employees, strategic business partners, distributors, trade
union members and their families, women’s organisations and church groups.
Others in Mining and Telecoms Industries launched a BEE procurement policy.
This was done without any legislation backing it, but out of the need identified by
the company to drive empowerment within the country. The Tender Board Act is
recently reviewed to look into preferential treatment of locals and small business.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry is busy on a strategic approach to reserve
certain petty retailing and transport avenues for locals. There are other measures
which for brevity sake I won t mentioned here but which points to the fact that
there is growing realisation of BEE inspired efforts to ensure local ownership and
involvement on part of government and private sector sectors alike.
Is BEE Still Relevant in Modern Times?
The implementation process of the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment
(BBBEE) remains however not without its faults. There are proponents that argue
that the nature and the participation of those involved make it narrower in
disguise.
BBEEE should never be seen as a short term gain but as a medium to long-term
process that will only work if sound corporate governance, business and
economic principles are followed. Artificial means on both White and Black to hi
jack the noble goal of broad empowerment can be beneficial for the parties
involved in terms of capital and human resource gain in the short term but I can
guarantee you that it would be detrimental in the medium to long term for any
economy that desperately needs higher levels of sustained local economic growth
and development. It is important to look for long lasting solutions on BBBEE
rather than ones of a quick fix nature.
The role of mentorship and skills transfer cannot be overemphasized in the path
to broad based empowerment. Many companies afford these tremendous
opportunities to young, newly qualified black managers. The value of experience,
coaching, mentoring and hands-on tactics should not be discounted. It is
noteworthy that certain international companies in South Africa and Namibia
have also engaged in models of in-house mentorship and incubation of fledgling
black entrepreneurs in their field. This model ensures long-term sustainability
through strong management and entrepreneurial spirit being built. Special
emphasis must also be placed on training, upgrading and real participation in
ownership to de-lock the mind on easy gains but to engage consistently in a
Road Less Travelled .
The source of broad based BEE for the majority of Namibians and South Africans
will not be found for the future in the formal private and public sectors. There
seem to be limits on their growth potential given the current regional and global
constraints. There is need to shift the mindset in Namibia and South Africa of
innovating and creating ideas within the Small and Medium Enterprises sector to
make it grow as it is the only sector that is responsive to advancing technologies
in the knowledge service orientation, corporate social investment oriented
avenues, renewable energy to tackle climate change and home grown or creation
of indigenous products such as arts, crafts, health products, agro processed
products.
These alternative economic activities which are entrepreneurial such as the SME s
must be fostered with finding an expansive domestic and export markets as it is
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the only enterprise development in the SME sector which can have multiplier
effects and gauged by many to be the most significant future contributor to job
creation and economic growth in the country. SME s role is still under emphasised
in Namibia and to a lesser extent in South Africa but it is the only sector in
Southern Africa which is cross cutting across sectors such as mining, tourism,
leisure, manufacturing, etc and can assist in absorbing a majority of the excluded
population into the economic sphere of Namibia
But for such a sector to take off, there is a need to develop better mechanisms of
ensured access to finance, entrepreneurial skills, values, talent and culture and
Government and Private Sector must put heads together and spark the liveliness
of this sector for it to take off properly.
To achieve a credible and effective BEE in Namibia and South Africa which is
broad based and does address the real empowerment of those to be
empowered, it is crucial to structure BEE in our economies. BEE needs to be
implemented within a framework where a consistency of approach, appropriate
flexibility to respond to different economic and enterprise conditions and the
ability to measure the progress on BEE implementation has to be fostered.
In terms of a consistency of approach, it is crucial that when ownership is
transferred to black ownership, that there needs to be innovative ways of
financing the empowerment deals that will support effective BEE transactions.
The companies that want to transact BEE with its empowered partner needs to
realize that they must first employ best practice finance models for BEE
transactions?
BEE ownership transfer deals does not entail one-size-fits-all approach but
needs to be done taking a consistent approach in terms of best practice
implementation. The various types of finance mechanisms that are available to
successfully achieve sustainable empowerment shareholding which includes
Government funding, Share schemes, Grants and incentives; Debt finance, Project
finance, Joint ventures, and Venture capital need to consider on the nature and
type of a BEE deal taking into account what kind of players are involved as well.
Of all this type of finance mechanisms, South African experience and to a lesser
extent in Namibia the consideration of debt finance seem to be the most logical
and attractive options which is easily implemented in terms of BEE deals. It
involves a process whereby the empowerment partners because of their inability
to have ready capital available to transact the BEE, incurs a loan structured in
such a way to repay such a loan or debt from cash flows generated by the
company. Such an approach involves a process where massive wealth is
transferred to the empowerment partners leading to a possibility of black
fronting, and transfer of assets without real value addition.
When other broad BEE players are brought on board to make it look broad based
such as Women and Trade Unions and regional or provincial players, such
approach does not necessarily solve the problem of black fronting and seem to be
broad in disguise and does not really lead to real empowerment but again to
those who have the transaction right to the BEE deal. The debt financed BEE
transaction deals which are currently still been considered is not in my view a
sustainable empowerment mechanism as it invokes the moral hazard problem as
it sounds more like sharing in money on a silver platter without any
contribution . Further, the partners are trapped in deals that take up to 20 years
to realize dividends, if at all. The debt finance deals are also supplemented by sole
vendor financing (the white BEE partner) and issue of share options and grants to
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its black empowerment partner. Through this approach, debt is then raised
against the shares the BEE partner possess in the company and hence the deal is
more structured at arm s length basis whereby the BEE partner is passively
involved in the growth, value addition and profitability of the company.
Increasingly, experiences with BEE transactions are showing that empowerment
partners need to at least bring some capital to ensure BEE transactions to work
effectively. Hence, various new options are considered that BEE partners in
Namibia and South Africa can take advantage of. One attractive option is equity
financing where a BEE partner needs to find actively an investor as partner to
start its business, normally a SME. There are two main potential categories that
can make equity financing successful which also bring in an element of broad
based economic empowerment. These are (a) venture capitalist or risk-loving
equity funding companies, (b) or engaging employee, women and/or trade union
investors. The real value addition of these broad based options is to ensure that
these partners are entitled to contribute in some sort towards the empowerment
process. It does not always have to be money but can be also goodwill and
commitment. Women Associations for example can be made mandatory as a
empowerment partner to train a number of woman in finance skills per annum
whereas trade unions will be required to contribute to work ethic, efficiency and
productivity of a company through shared performance assessment and
performance policy towards increased profitability of all.
Another innovative option involves debt financing raised against its assets and not
shares as it is traditionally used to be. Given that BEE partners do not have
sufficient assets to transact BEE, white BEE partner can sell assets to its BEE black
partner which in turn borrows money from the bank against those assets to pay
for them. This model called also the leveraging model represents a robust
sustainable long term (usually 10 to 20 years) process where moral hazard
problems are avoided and where both the financier (bank), vendor (white BEE
partner) and empowerment partner share in the risk and the growth and
development of the company. This kind of models I am to learn are proven to be
more attractive in South Africa as success models among SME s and where large
companies such as Anglo American and Ingwe, an empowerment partner has
financed it successfully.
With regard to appropriate flexibility to respond to different economic and
enterprise conditions, BEE companies need to realize that they are confronted by
changing domestic, regional and global economic, political and social factors that
can impinge on the success of their enterprise and hence be mindful of those
developments. BEE companies need to successfully build an affirmative
procurement policy to create a sustainable empowerment initiative in their
company. Concerns such as whether your company is BEE compliant, or sourcing
its goods and supplies from BEE suppliers adhering to proper ethical guidelines
are matters that requires immediate attention if the BEE partners wants to make
success of its business.
Madam Moderator
Another issue concerns whether the BEE Company applies effective employment
equity plan, policies and programmes that promotes efficient human resource
development and growth in their entity and is aligned to the affirmative action act
of the country? Here the success to Broad Base BEE is Skills, Skills and &more
Skills. BEE Companies need to be conscious of treating skills development as the
foundation of real broad base BEE. BEE companies need to continuously answer
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questions such as is there an accelerated skills development and training
initiatives that further enhance the company of BEE goals. Has the BEE company
master the appropriate techniques to effectively build a social investment and
enterprise development policy for its stakeholders are also another matter that
BEE enterprises must take into account to respond adequately to any socially
developmental activity such as an HIV/Aids prevention and invest wisely for
health retention of its own staff for example.
In conclusion, experience so far on BEE Structuring shows that the current debt
financing of BEE transactions is not successful and BEE companies are under
renewed pressure to actively transact their BEE deals through private equity
capital. Such is the urgency of executing BEE transactions that the traditional
private equity industry has virtually been turned into a BEE financing industry in
South Africa for example and Namibia is actually following that example. This type
of financing represents a most noble approach towards structuring BEE in
Namibia and South Africa and needs to be encouraged especially as funding
mechanism for the emerging and fast growing SMEs.
To end on a positive note, Broad based BEE is a must taking into account similar
success in Malaysia to address this skewed perpetuating socio-economic situation
in the 1960 s. In Malaysia, a concerted policy called Bumaputra Malays to
address the indigenisation of Malays from the expatriate Chinese was also
implemented to ensure development of the economic infrastructure in which the
Malays find themselves in to ensure increased opportunities in terms of positions,
assets and income.

Black Economic Empowerment is needed in Namibia (2010-05-28 13:03)

Black Economic Empowerment is about enlarging participation in the economy of the country. It’s a tool
to create wealth and opportunity to people who were previously excluded and achieved through partnership
between white and black business people.
Namibia has gone through various political changes over the past two centuries. One thing however is
always constant. Once the political change occurs, there is a realisation that political independence means
very little without economic ownership change. When the English ruled over Southern Africa they had
the economic might. The Afrikaner took over and had to create state institutions such as the Eerste
Nasionale Ontwikkelings Korporasie (ENOK or First National Development Corporation) to allow Afrikaner
businessmen to get a share of the economic pie. The also created other institutions that should be supported
by their people to become as powerful as the English ones, for example banks and insurance companies
(Sanlam, Santam, etc.).
In much the same way, the black people of Namibia need to become participants in the economy. The first
efforts were made in the early 1990 s to unite the two chambers of commerce, namely the Windhoek CCI and
Windhoek Business Chamber. This resulted in the Namibia National Chamber of Commerce and Industry,
the predecessor of the present NCCI.
This was one of the most challenging times in my working life. The mistrust of decades had to be plastered
over for the sake of the country and our newly created democracy. We succeeded.
BUT, we only plastered over the problem. The black majority is still not participating in the meaningful
way promised by the politicians. Or for that matter, the way the previous English and Afrikaner political
movements allowed their voters to prosper.

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2.5 July

Legal shielding products a rip off ! (2010-07-06 18:19)

A recent article of the Namibian newspaper (July 2010), quotes a study which has found that ”Regulators
need to up their game”. The study ”expressed concern about the conduct of the industry and has warned that
the reputation of the Bank of Namibia (BoN) and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority
(Namfisa) will suffer unless they step up supervision.” In the study, mention is made of certain insurance
companies that make use of misleading advertising when offering products as ”free”.
This has to be a wake up call to us as consumers.
As a lobby group, we have regularly been contacted by customers who do not receive the service they expected
when they bought the products as advertised. A common complaint is about the legal insurance product so
widely advertised in our newspapers, radio and television. In these adverts, the consumer is made to believe
that a monthly premium will give them access to legal assistance should the need arise. A typical example
of how this insurance company works is what happened to Marco H.
Marco was a client of ”legal insurance” and was not worried if something should go wrong. One morning, his
employer informed him that there were suspicions of theft and the employees had to each take a lie detector
test. Marco called his legal insurance company but was told that they do not cover labour issues. he then
reluctantly took the lie detector test.
The employer decided to lay criminal charges with the police after the tests and the whole group of employees
were taken to the Windhoek central police station and charged. He called his legal insurance company, and
was informed they could not assist him in a criminal case.
Luckily for Marco, he was able to call up a friend that could get him bail arranged and he was thus not
forced to spend the weekend in jail. On the Monday, he duly went to his legal insurance company at their
big headquarters building to get some assistance. After reporting at the reception, he was rather rudely
informed that his case did not meet the standards of a claim.
This was definitely a case of misleading advertising if not theft. BUT what can Marco really do? Very little.
Even the institutions that are supposed to do something, cannot help.
We once again point out that we need consumer laws, and consumer protection agencies that have teeth to
prevent these companies for abusing the Namibian consumer.
Please see attached below a message on the same issue sent to our members last year November.
Kind regards
Milton Louw
Founder
Namibia Consumer Protection Group

The cost of taking legal action can be prohibitive. Could you afford to claim compensation if you were
injured in an accident, unfairly dismissed from work or had a dispute with a business?
A friend of mine has had legal insurance and believed he was covered. About a month ago, he was accussed
of being involved in a theft syndicate at his work. He immediately called his legal insurance company, but
was informed they do not cover criminal cases.
He was taken for a polygraph test (is that legal in Namibia), and informed that he had failed the test. This
led to him leaving the job that morning to go speak to his legal insurer.
Yeah right. They do not cover the expenses for a labour case either.
WHAT is it with insurance companies that do not want to pay claims? If you complain at NAMFISA they
do very little to help.
If I am going to buy legal insurance I expect:
Bail Assistance
" Bail negotiations and applications on members behalf
" Depositing of the bail amount/issuing of bail guarantee on behalf of arrested member
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Civil Law
" Bank and insurance matters
" Blacklisting
" Building and construction matters
" Contractual disputes
" Debt collection
" Letters of demand
" Litigation
" Personal injury claims, etc
Criminal Law
" Fraud, theft, robbery or assault
" Arrests
" Bail applications
" Consumer issues
" Driving under the influence
" Reckless driving
" Search warrants, etc.
Family Law
" Ante-nuptial contracts
" Custody disputes
" Divorces
" Family violence matters
" Interdicts
" Maintenance disputes, etc.
Labour Law
" Dismissals
" Disciplinary proceedings
" Pension payout disputes
" Restraint of trade agreements
" Retrenchments
" Unpaid wages
" Working conditions
Surely this is not too much to ask?

On tribal integration in Namibia (2010-07-20 09:25)

Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare wrote: Just wondering: is tribal unity the same as national unity in Namibia
or Africa? In other words, is our being wambos, kavangos, hereros, damaras, namas, caprivians, basters,
coloureds, twanas, afrikaners, germans or english in Namibia more important than being Namibians and our
being Namibians more relevant to being Africans: what is your honest opinion?
I start by addressing the words of Albert Einstein, He who cherishes the values of culture cannot fail to
be a pacifist. I must first address mistakes that I have made in my feeble attempts at contributing to the
nationhood of our beloved land during the past twenty odd years. I have thought it unimportant where my
family comes from, what their cultures and beliefs were, and often thought these were to be considered and
ultimately rejected as part of their living in a past dominated by the racial classification given by the system
of Apartheid.
Who I am is not dictated by our external environment, but rather by the internal. As humans we tend to
blame our culture, society, government, employers and even our own families for things that goes wrong, but
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rarely give them credit for our achievements.
We have thrown the baby out with the bathwater. This is the only explanation of the total lack of information
based on cultural affiliations in our census in Namibia. Unfortunately, this attitude of let s pretend it is not
there does not make it so.
Even in South Africa, where the Apartheid system was the most formalised, they have recognised the need
to keep the information and knowledge of all cultural groups as part of the rainbow nation . Discrimination
because of race colour or culture is a thing of the past and is replaced by recognition and acceptance of our
differences.
We have also outlawed discrimination on the basis of gender, yet still need this categorisation to measure the
needed changes that must take place in our country for gender equality. In the same way it is important to
note that when a previously marginalised group, such as the San people, have qualified teachers from within
their own tribe and culture (Republikein 14 April 2009).
The lack of recognition of certain groups can have detrimental affects on our country. Look at what has
happened to some of our pre-Independence orphans who returned from East Germany. More recently we
have seen the SWAPO veterans and orphans also wishing to be recognised as a distinct group with specific
needs. In the near future we will see a new group forming of AIDS orphans who have grown up differently
with specific disadvantages that need to be addressed to allow them to fully pluck the fruits of our freedom.
What culture shall all these groups inherit?
There is a national culture Namibia. Thus we can refer to our language as Namlish with its peculiarities
and pronunciations. We are known by our friends and foes on the sport fields as the Brave warriors and the
Biltongboere.
In business we refer to the marketing process. It starts with an analysis of the present and then moves
to develop a strategy. In marketing it is recognised that to provide the best product for the customer
you need to segment the market. Tools such as the Living Standards Measurement are used to focus our
marketing efforts. A typical LSM would include age, gender, race or cultural group and income. (Living
Standards Measurement Study (LSMS) household surveys have become an important tool in measuring and
understanding poverty in developing countries.)
The people of Namibia are the customer. To serve our people better we must recognise our difference not
only in gender or language but also in race. The census in Namibia must measure the race and culture
embraced by each resident in future.
The tertiary education institutes in Namibia must then participate in research focussing on cultural, racial,
gender, urban-rural economic and livelihood inequalities in Namibia. This ongoing research must continue to
ask what the relationship is between the growth and spatial distribution of the public and private economic
sectors. It must also encompass the formal and informal economy, the nature of poverty, the characteristics
of poor areas, and socio-economic empowerment.
Lastly, we must learn to say ”We are Namibian (Wambos, Hereros, Coloureds, etc.) proud to be working to
a better future for our family, tribe and country!

2.6 August

Namibia and Integration (2010-08-14 12:40)

Most of the Namibian peoples have come to this area leaving behind war or oppression of some sort or the
other. They chose this inhospitable place to settle and live peacefully, not only with one another, but also
with the natural environment they found themselves in. During periods of oppression they have not had a
choice but to react to ensure their continued peace and stability.
After Independence, it was only natural that Namibians should choose to have one of the best constitutions
98
in the world that ensures this peace and continued peaceful co-existence with one another. The policy of
reconciliation was as natural for its people as breathing and eating.
Today, Namibia is a model that few other countries can emulate. Worldwide, countries struggle with problems
of integration. These differences take the form of religion, language, customs or race. In Namibia these
differences are recognised, but do not form the basis of either government policy decisions or social interaction.
As Namibians we have a lot to offer the world, and more specifically our neighbours in Southern Africa. We
are an Institute of Integration where peoples from other parts of the world can come to learn what we
know we have a dependency on our fellow human beings and the natural environment in which we stay.

Local economic development in Otjimbingwe (2010-08-18 11:01)

Okay. Its fine to spout rhetoric and say lets do this or that. The proof of the pudding is in the eating.
The Otjimbingwe Research Centre is preparing a localised study to test out certain socio-economic develop-
ment proposals. I am preparing the Situational Analysis. lets see if I have it in me?

Namibian Ministries Re-engineered (2010-08-19 12:27)

I do not present a case for how the Cabinet should be structured, but rather concentrate on the individual
tasks of Departments. In other words, the discretion of which Ministers should be appointed is not for my
efforts, but rather only the makeup of the individual Departments into Ministries that could combine certain
tasks.
Re-engineering the Public Service
It is easy to be critical of the government and the bureaucracy of the state . However, it is not always
easy to provide an alternative plan or structure. In the following section, I suggest not only how government
ministries and departments can be restructured based on my perception of economic and political changes,
but also changing social needs, and new technologies available.
1) Office of the President
" The Office of the President shall include a Minister of Presidential Affairs.
" The following shall resort under the Office of the Minister of Presidential Affairs:
i. Auditor-General
ii. Director-General of the Central Intelligence Service
iii. Director-General of Planning
(Each of the above-mentioned shall have its own administration with its own Permanent Secretary)
The Presidential Economic Advisory Council will also be housed in the Office of the President. It shall
consist of 5 individuals recognised for their knowledge and experience in business. The Chairperson of the
PEAC shall also be one of the Presidential appointments to the National Assembly.
2) Office of the Prime Minister
" Shall be the leader of Government business in Parliament;
" Shall co-ordinate the work of the Cabinet and shall advise and assist the President in the execution of the
functions of Government;
" Shall be responsible for the Public Service (government employees);
" Shall represent the Government as employer in labour relations;
" Shall be responsible for the Public Service Information Technology Management;
3) Ministry of Foreign Affairs
" Shall be responsible for interaction with other nations, regional and international organisations;
99
" Shall be responsible for trade policy and external trade relations;
" Shall be responsible for the promotion of investment opportunities in Namibia (foreign direct investment);
" Shall be responsible for the promotion of Namibia as a tourist destination
4) Ministry of Home Affairs
" Shall be responsible for the establishment and maintenance of a central register. This shall include:
i. Register of Residents;
ii. Register of Marriage Contracts;
iii. Register of Business;
iv. Register of Professions;
v. Register of Property Ownership (land & vehicles);
vi. Register of Licences for Natural Resources and Utilisation;
vii. Register of Trademarks, Patents and Copyright
viii. Register of External Trade;
ix. Register of Court Sentences, Proceedings, Declarations
x. Register of Bankruptcies and Insolvencies
xi. Register of other legal entities:
1. Non-Government Organisations
2. Religious Organisations
3. Welfare Organisations
" Shall make available to every resident any, and all, information recorded and stored concerning that
resident.
" Shall be responsible for the control of immigration points and border posts
" Shall be responsible to maintain law and order in the country (Police)
5) Ministry of Environment and Resources
" The Ministry shall be responsible for the following economic activities with the objective of securing
economic growth, prosperity and a life of human dignity for all Namibians:
i. Agriculture
ii. Energy
iii. Fisheries and Marine Resources
iv. Forestry
v. Mining
vi. Tourism
vii. Water
" Shall co-ordinate the sustainable management of Namibia s resources;
" Shall be responsible for the granting of licences, and other administration tasks, in the afore-mentioned
economic activities.
" Shall co-ordinate land reform and land resettlement policies and programmes;
6) Ministry of Finance
" Shall be responsible for State Income and Expenditure
" Shall collect all monies payable to the state, in the form of taxes, duties, licence fees, or any other state
income;
7) Ministry of Works, Transport and State-owned Enterprises
" Shall be responsible for:
i. Government owned properties
ii. Government owned businesses (state owned enterprises)
" Shall be responsible for Transport (Aviation, Maritime Affairs, Road and Rail);
" Shall be a project management unit for all infrastructure development and maintenance;
8) Ministry of Labour Relations
" Shall be responsible for the tripartite relationship with employees, employers and the state. (In the case
of state employees, the Office of the Prime Minister shall represent the Employer.)
100
" Shall maintain a database of occupations and work together with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry
of Education to provide matching services for skills.
9) Ministry of Trade and Industry
" Shall be responsible for:
i. Consumer Protection
ii. Industrial Development
iii. Export Development
iv. Entrepreneurship
10) Ministry of Education
" Shall be responsible for Primary, Secondary and Tertiary education.
" Shall be responsible for all institutions of learning, both private sector and state. (This will include
registration and standards of education provided.)
11) Ministry of Information and Communication-enabled Technologies
" Shall be responsible for disseminating information on the government, its structure and programmes.
" Shall be responsible for the National Library and Information Services;
" Shall oversee developments in ICT for the development of Namibia;
" Shall create and support of Community Centres at all regional and constituency levels. These community
centres shall provide information services through broadcasting, print and internet technologies
" Shall regulate the Telecommunications and Broadcasting sector;
" Shall be the custodian of the Access to Information Act
12) Ministry of Justice
(The administrative functions of the judiciary will be done by a department that is headed by a Director-
General appointed by the Parliament of Namibia.)
" Shall consist of the following:
i. Office of the Attorney-General
ii. Office of the Prosecutor-General
iii. Office of the Ombudsman
13) Ministry of Health and Social Services
" Shall provide clinics, hospitals and health services to all residents;
" Shall oversee the national social security and national pension scheme;
" Shall be responsible for the payments of old age pensions, war veterans allowances and disability grants;
14) Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare
" Shall be responsible for equality of women in all areas of government;
" Shall be responsible for all areas of child welfare from birth through to primary education
15) Ministry of Regional and Local Government
" Shall assist and regulate the activities of the regional and local governments;
" Shall be responsible for the programme of decentralisation;
" Shall provide administrative support services to regional and the constituency level offices.
16) Ministry of Defence
" Shall be responsible for the defence of the country from external threats;
" Shall be responsible for the protection of our natural resources, on land or in the sea;
17) Ministry of Correctional Services
" Shall be responsible for the carrying out the sentences of the courts;
" Shall identify work programme for the prisoners sentenced to forced labour
18) Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture
" Shall oversee the Directorate of Youth and the National Youth Council;
" Shall be responsible for Sport and Culture in Namibia

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Lady of my Dreams (2010-08-21 13:13)

Chorus
What is love but a tender feeling
A feeling I wish you felt for me.
I know I have that feeling
And, it s a feeling for you;
The lady of my Dreams
At night I go out and romance
With women I don t even know
And dream its you with who I dance
The Lady of my Dreams.
Now even my waking moments are bound in dreams
While where I want to be, is simply near you.
This feeling of love makes me want to scream
All because I know I cannot have you;
The Lady of my dreams.
Repeat chorus.

I d really like to know your name

(I m not kidding with this request,
even though you think it s a game)
But to me you ve become an obsession,
The lady of my Dreams.
Repeat Dreaming of you, the Lady of my Dreams
(softly fading away)

Do you love me? (2010-08-21 13:16)

Chorus
I thought I could go through life
And never think about getting a wife
But now I suddenly know
Down the aisle with you I want to go
But, I m forced to wonder
Do you really love me too?
I ve decided to write this song
Because I ve really got to ask you
And try and right this wrong
Because I ve really want to know
Do you really love me too?
I ve decided to ask you one more time
And maybe if I m really lucky
The wedding bells for us will chime;
I know this could be premature
I m sure you ll say yes.
So once again ask &
Do you really love me too?
102
Repeat chorus
Today you spoke about another guy
And I pretended not to notice
But inside I thought, O why?
So I ll have to ask again,
Do you really love me too?
Now you may be wondering why
And this is my simple reply,
Because I really do love you!

My True Feelings (2010-08-21 13:17)

I ve got this urge once more

To write a poem declaring my love
Because you re the one who makes my heart real sore!
Why, I ve even asked advice from the one above
But I realize that s real unfair
As I have to ask you the one for whom I care,
And so to you I put this test,
Am I really the one you love best?
Now once again I ve asked that question
Not because I doubt your word,
But because I find it hard to believe
You love me, even though I m such a turd!
Now as I end this poem
To you a promise I want to make,
A promise that no matter what happens
My feeling for you, I ll never forsake.

Love thoughts (2010-08-21 13:28)

Love is a piece of heaven which fell

Down to earth to give me problems.
I gave you my heart as if it were a ½cent
Cash it in and its worthless, but keep it and
you ll have priceless memories
Love is like a bag of fruit, wonderful to
chew on but hard to preserve.
Thinking of you is fun; being near you, &
better.
Love is like a rose, beautiful to hold, but
real prickly to hold.
Love is like bubblegum, too much chewing
and it goes stale
Love is & talking to the one you love!

103
Why do you like a guy like me? (2010-08-21 13:29)

A friend of yours told me that you like me

But I want to hear it from you personally!
I m actually a very shy guy
And that s why I keep asking myself, why?
Why do you like a guy like me?
Chorus
I ve watched you many times with admiring eyes
So tell me now, without any lies,
Why, Please tell me, why, do you like a guy like me?
I ve seen you with a couple of other boys
And I m sure you did not think of them as toys
You see, I m a kind of doubting Louw
And for this reason I ve just got to know,
Why do you like a guy like me?
I now wish I had a car
So I could take you and ride out far
And there I ll perform once more this task
Because I m just wanting to ask,
Why do you like a guy like me?
Repeat chorus

Song on my Radio (2010-08-21 13:29)

Today a song played on my Radio

And as it began to play, I lost myself in loving
memories
As the words seemed to touch my soul
Because my heart they seemed to tease,
And the suddenly I realized
To me, You Are The Greatest Love of All!
Chorus
I know my song will never be as good as Whitney s
But I m sure my message you ll understand
And maybe one day, when I begin my own band
You ll hear my song on your radio!
My ears are once more tuned
To the song playing so sweet
And, then, I know that if I lose you
My heart will cease to beat,
So move closer now
And together we ll produce a band new beat!
And now as it plays to an end
My heart seems to turn to lead
As I m forced to think
About all those really mean things I said
104
And so with this melody I write
I really mean to say I m sorry!
And that, I still love you!
Repeat Chorus
No matter what I seem to do
I m continually reminded of you
Which definitely proves, I only love you!

Heart thief (2010-08-21 13:38)

This verse may not rhyme

But maybe in time
You ll understand what I m trying to say
Because the truth is I don t want Janey, Felicity
or Dianne
As I want you, the one who makes me feel
like such a man.
But you still believe what others say about me,
even though most of it is lies,
and if you really don t believe me, watch me
close and look in my eyes
while I tell you,
You re the one whose stolen my heart!
Heart-thief, why did I meet you now, after I promised myself that for love I d wait,
But now I ve suddenly up and realized
I m far too late,
As you ve already stolen my heart!
I ve known many girls, some named, Yvonne, Janice and Elaine
But they think I m going quite insane,
Because I left them all for you.
I ve written you a couple of letters, and
meant everything from within my heart
But now its seems you are willing with me
to part
But, no matter with how many girls I ll go out
with my years
I ll always prefer (and wish) it was you so
I could draw you near,
Because you re the one whose stolen my heart!

Head over Heels (2010-08-21 13:57)

Today you kissed me once again

But then you did something real bad
And it makes me believe you re playing with me
And this thought makes me quite sad
105
Because I ve fallen head over heels in love with you.
Why do you play with me,
And think of me as just another boy
With whose feelings you can play as if it were a toy
But, I m different you see
Because I don t like being treated like dirt
And this is what is really making my heart hurt
Because I ve fallen head over heels in love with you.
I keep telling you about how I feel
But I don t think you believe everything I say
And if you don t stop playing with me
We ll be forced to part one day
Even though I ve fallen head over heels in love with you.
Next time we kiss as we did today
Just promise you won t do it again
And I ll promise to make sure you get home, early, as this is not just a simple game
Because I ve fallen head over heels in love with you.

Prisoner of Love (2010-08-21 14:00)

I tried pretending about how I felt towards

you girl
But I realize now I can t keep on lying
to myself
As I ve got to swallow this pill
Which says to me
I m still in your power.
Chorus
For a long time now I ve been trying out this verse
Wondering how I can say I love you
And that I always will, even for better or worse
As I m kind a glad I m still in your power.
The other day I even tried out someone new
But this came to nothing as I soon knew
That I d rather have this bout with you
As I m fully aware
I m still in your power.
My songs just seem to be getting worse and worse
Because I realize I don t need them as I ve got you
And without you I d probably end up in a hearse
Because I know
I m still in your power
Repeat chorus
What s this power you hold over me
I m kind of hoping its love
Because my hearts real precious see
And now I m thanking the one above
That I m still in your power
106
Repeat In your power is where I want to stay
(softly fading away)

I want you!! (2010-08-21 14:03)

I wish I were older

So I could know just what to do
Because lately we ve got a bolder
And now I feel my heart pounding
Cause I want to make love to you.
Sometimes I think maybe I m just scared
But I want you to realize
I m waiting till the day we wed
But sometimes I don t think I can wait that long
Cause I want to make love to you.
The other day we were nearly caught
But I don t think they ll believe
That of that day came nought
So now I m trying to cool down real fast
Cause I still want to make love to you
Having sex sound so crude
I try to think of it a little different
Just thinking of it as kind of nice with both of
us being nude
And now you have to give me a break
Cause I want to make love to you.
Looking at you naked gives me a chill
But we both know what s right
And if you go on the pill
It ll certainly change things
Cause I want to make love to you.

Doing it for you, Collette (2010-08-21 14:04)

My life has been turned upside down

As I never realized how much you love me
And now I know; I m wearing a crown
And even though it s made of thorns
I ll still do it for you
At school, life is turning out funny
As they putting pressure on me
Thinking I was out just to get money
But even if I had the same choice again
I ll still choose you forever.
Chorus
I d love to start our friendship again
107
And this time I m willing to listen
And even try acting a little sane
So I can keep you,
Cause all this I ll do for you
As I know I love you Collette
And that s something on which you can bet!
Now once more I m getting lots of flak
Cause people think we don t fit
And how you stuck me in my back
And our relationship has come to an end
But with you, I m willing to try again
People often say I m a Casanova
Just because I ve know a lot of girls
But they re all blown over
As I know what I want
And I know what I want
And you the one I m trying to keep.

Proving our love (2010-08-21 14:11)

Last night we watched video s till late

And soon as the others were gone
Neither of us could really wait
To jump into each others arms
Which proves to me really do love each other.
Chorus
Its real pity about what your family said
They seem to have a funny idea in their heads
Which makes them think I ve had you laid
But I realize we ve got it made
Because even with this charge against me
We ve stayed together see
To prove we really do love each other.
I ve been close to other girls at times
And I ve never been tempted away
Because it all seemed like mimes
When I m not with you
Which proves to me I really do love you
Once, not so long ago
I tried to break away from you
But my heart said no, don t go
Stay with this girl force you die
Which proves to me I really do love you.
Repeat chorus
Now you ve taken me back
And I m really glad
Because with me you ve got a knack
To keep me forever happy
108
Which proves to me, you really do love me.

Your Love has shown me (2010-08-21 14:40)

I ve been listening to Love Notes

And I realize they know what they are singing about
Because love is definitely a wonderful thing
This I know beyond a doubt
As your love has shown this to me.
I know they are singing from experience
But there s still one thing bothering me,
And that s that they thing of love as a physical thing
While I don t think that s really necessary,
As we seem to be getting along just fine
Without having to hop into bed
Because I know you are totally mine
Without this proof of love
And even though we come close,
I m kind of glad we didn t,
Even though I could have done with a dose
Of having your body joining with mine,
I know it would have been wrong
And this is my way of showing you.
My real reason for writing this song
To tell you I really do need you
But, that I d rather wait,
Until we are truly wed
But of late
I ve been wondering again
And in the process nearly going insane
But I know we have been right
(Even though I d still like to sleep with you at night)
As your love has show me the way,
And that s the best, no matter what others have to say!

Thank you! Collette (2010-08-21 15:01)

Thank you for your wonderful (love) letter,

I know no guy could have got a better
And it makes me doubly happy
Because you say you really do love me,
And I can say the same too
As I do really love you
Cause this feeling is really good
And this feeling is really good
And that s the way it should
109
I love you plenty
And this is my way to say
I m glad you love me
As I really do know so
And maybe together one day we ll stay,
And I hope that you won t then say no!

The Leftist Capitalist (2010-08-23 12:52)

Start early life short go through

Extreme hardship and good luck.
But still walk off the edge
Do something wrong
Get another chance begin at the
Beginning a place I knew
Still live large larger than you
Can dream in a year night after night
Have it bad yet have it all
The most beautiful Girl in the world
I had not yet met
Material Girl was the way I judged
Didn t go away yet did study
Was against politics what a fool
Became the best politician
Learning the dangers of the Gravy train
A goddess was given to me
To name as in the time of Adam
Thought I was god Really messed up
That s when I lost sight of reality
Cancer was very lucky in the beginning
Understood that I had never been taught
Tried new things became the boss
Resigned because of principles not Fortune
Ran away luckily I had friends
People who at least made an effort
Got there made a home, without her
Missed them to much
Came back master of destiny
A phoenix arisen to fly Kalahari
Down to earth working at night
Paper millionaires who cannot file
Was all I learnt a waste
No!
I grew up knowing nothing feeling hurt
Made to learn to appreciate
Thank you teachers one and all
From the first who loved me till the last
Now I understand the burden
110
The one of the leftist capitalist
Get paid for what you do well
Neither under or over charge
Earn fairly, pay slightly better
Enjoy the fruits of your labour
Yet bury the seeds.
By being happy that you are moneyed
You give back equally
Try to teach another, to be us lucky as You!

Our Big Brother South Africa (2010-08-23 15:16)

South Africa used to be our colonial master. The ant-apartheid struggle in South Africa was also our struggle.
Many of us have family on both sides of the Orange River. We import most of our consumer goods from
South Africa. Our money, the Namibian Dollar is directly equal to the Rand. All, but one, of our banks is
South African owned. These are facts we must accept, there are the good, the bad and the difficult things
in this relationship.
The Good
Namibia is a member of the oldest custom union in the world, namely the Southern Africa Customs Union
(SACU). The members are Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland and South Africa.
Being part of a customs union means that all goods brought into the Union will face the same amount of
customs duty. More importantly, all goods produced by any member will not face duty when sold in one of
the other member countries.
In effect this means a company can choose to produce in Durban, Port Elizabeth, Gaberone, or Oshakati
and have the same access to all the consumers in our countries. The only difference is in the local labour or
services, transport costs between markets, and the quality of life in each of these locations.
So, Namibia should have an active investment promotion policy to:
a) attract companies wishing to penetrate the southern African market; and
b) encourage South African companies to open factories in Namibia
To do this will mean preparing a comparison list to other localities in the region, and making sure we are
the first choice in all regards. It is important to remember that all aspects, such as the quality of education
available to children at the investment location, can be pivotal in decision-making by the management who
have to relocate.
SO HOW BIG is the Namibian Market? The Namibian market consists of more than 200 million people
all residents of SACU are our market.
The Bad
Just like any big brother, South Africa can sometimes use its muscle to bully the smaller states in the Union.
This can lead to companies protecting their markets by using dumping for example to prevent a business
from being able to establish itself locally. Because of a larger range of products, companies can also insist
retailers do not stock any of their competitor s products. This has happened in the case of candles, toilet
paper, cement, school desks, to name just a few.
Namibia must use the facility (already written in the SACU agreement) to protect its infant industries.
At the same time, I must warn about the measures sometimes used to protect local industries. In the early
1990 s the government enacted regulations to stop empty glass bottles from leaving Namibia. This was to
protect our local Namibia Breweries. It was possibly a good measure, but inadvertently has led to a pollution
problem. If you investigate any of the glass bottles being thrown away, you realise bottles are all from foreign
bottlers. The reason, only Namibian Breweries offers a refund and reuses their bottles the others cannot
take the empties across the border.
111
The Difficult
Our dependence on South Africa also means that when something goes wrong there it affects us directly. If
the World Cup is held in RSA, we receive indirect benefits, but when there is a political problem, we also
receive the negative coverage.

An exploration into the Coloured market (2010-08-24 12:28)

(This article was originally published on Marketingweb a few months back. It drives home some key points
that we’ve been trying to emphasise here on Bruin-ou.com since the site was launched, that the Coloured
community is unjustifiably neglected by corporate South Africa and in so doing, is incapable of properly ad-
vancing in South African society today. We’d love to hear your views on this article.)
Fragmented, stereotyped and misunderstood, South Africa s 4.4 million strong Coloured market is as big as
the white market in South Africa (9.1 % of the population vs. 9 %) and yet so many marketers have made
the mistake of overlooking opportunities within this previously disadvantaged group.
This is a shortsighted, given that the Coloured market makes up 63 % of the total population in the Western
Cape (Stats SA 2009), and therefore it is no surprise that so many brands that are successful elsewhere fail
to connect with consumers in this province. To understand this complexity, one just has to start by looking
at issues of Coloured identity. A debate rages around the meaning of the term ”Coloured” - does it refer to
a group of people lumped together in the past, and therefore share the same history, or does it rather refer
to certain characteristics? It would seem that defining the term ”Coloured” is no longer as one dimensional
as many people believe it to be. As a result there have been books written about it, movies made and a
number of blogs and social networking sites dedicated to the issue.
The Cape Coloured market comprises a diverse group of people. These individuals differ in terms of mindsets
and lifestyle. Since 1994 this market has evolved and become highly complex, and is not the single homoge-
nous group that many believe it to be. The Coloured market acknowledges their differences and thus there
is a strong need for them to differentiate themselves based on their lifestyle and mindsets.
Strategy and research company OIL has conducted an in-depth study in an attempt to provide marketers
with a deeper understanding of the dynamics within the Coloured market in the Western Cape. The study
used a mixture of methodologies, including ethnographic research backed up using AMPS/TGI data; and
insights gained from social networking sites. Aside from looking at the consumer behaviour and mindsets
of this market, this cutting-edge study highlights key insights into this market and, most importantly, offers
vital untapped marketing opportunities for brands.
In this study, OIL identified four segments within the market that aim to improve marketers’ understanding
of the Coloured market and help them create effective brand communication strategies. The segments are
The Escapers, The In-Betweeners, The Achievers and The Silver Spooners.
The Escapers, referred to within the community as ”gam”, are a segment defined by the legacy of Apartheid.
They are characterised by a so-called ghetto lifestyle with a tendency to escape their everyday reality, living
day-to-day and with a very short-term focus. Escapers are loud and proud of who they are, and embrace
the Cape Coloured stereotypes - from kombuistaal to passion gaps
The In-Betweeners are an aspirational segment; those who often find themselves caught between two worlds
- the upper and the lower income communities. Although they are aspirational, they are not willing to com-
promise their lifestyle for long-term success. They have a medium focused approach by showing aspiration
through the conspicuous consumption of branded goods. They embrace the term ”Coloured” and focus on
the positive associations of Coloured culture - from having a great sense of humour to having fun like no
other culture.
The Achievers are defined by their success through hard work and determination. The majority of this
segment comprise individuals who have fought through the struggle of Apartheid and are aware that their
lifestyle has not come easily to them. There is a continued drive for excellence and success, especially with
112
their children. Although they are successful, they still remain grounded in their community and proud of
their background.
The Silver Spooners are the children of the upper income Achiever parents and live an affluent lifestyle. This
elite segment makes up a very small percentage of the Cape Coloured population and has not been exposed
to mainstream Coloured culture. They, therefore, cannot relate to the Coloured culture as much as other
segments.
Even though there are various segments, these individuals share certain commonalities. Cooking and food
are considered important elements for bringing a family together. There are a lot of Malay influences with
the food prepared by both Christians and Muslims. Coloured families are very close and often have more
than the immediate family living in a household. They also tend to live within close proximity to each other,
as family is considered to be a strong support pillar.
Religion also plays a very important role and there is great emphasis placed on teaching children their reli-
gious values.
There is a shared desire for the younger generation to show status through wearing branded sneakers and
”pimping” old cars, as opposed to driving the latest luxury vehicle. There is also a strong interest in English
soccer teams, far more so than local teams. This can be seen with the English soccer branded paraphernalia
within each household.
Due to the lack of research into this market it is not surprising that there are so many misconceptions and
stereotyping surrounding the Coloured community. This market has the spending power of over R60 billion
a year; therefore this is an opportunity that marketers should not ignore.

My Birthday girl - (Collette Campher 17 June 1987) (2010-08-25 10:54)

I ve finished writing you a poem

So I thought maybe I ll write a song;
To you how much I care
And how our love just can t be wrong;
So here s looking at you, Birthday girl.
You re entering the magic years of youth now
The time you should be free
So if at any time you want your freedom
Just come and tell me
Because I ll do anything for my Birthday girl.
As you get older, you get more beautiful
And that can t be proven as a lie
Cause I ve seen the guys looking at you
All wishing I d just peg off and die
So they can get a chance with my Birthday girl
This song is up to s(peep)t
It seems I just can t think straight,
I keep getting side-tracked by memories of you
And the nights when we stayed up till late
So here s to memories of you Birthday girl.
I hope you like these couple of lines
And that you ll realize I mean every word
And not laugh your head off
Because you think them real absurd
So think once more of me My Birthday Girl
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Birthday Poem (17 June 1987 Collette turns 18) (2010-08-25 10:56)

Well I ve decided to write you a birthday poem

Something to make you think a little of me right now
And of the day we plan to set up a home
But don t ask, as right now I don t know how
This poem has started to sound real silly to me
And I thought about starting another one
But, I ve got to have something special for you,
So I ll just have to go on till it s done.
Maybe I should write about the way I feel;
Or, about how I really want you again;
Or, about how your heart I want to steal;
Well, I better decide quick otherwise
I ll probably go insane.
I know this poem isn t much of a present
But until I m qualified that s all I can afford
But you got to realize every word is meant
So please, when you read this, don t get bored!
Why the heck can t I be rich, rolling in money?
So I can buy everything your heart desires
Whether it be clothes, pots containing real honey,
Or even a hot set of tires.
But my lot I suppose I must accept
And the most I can do is to give you respect
And a promise that one day soon
I ll even be able to give you the moon!
Happy Birthday! Gesëende dae vorentoe is my wens vir jou!

Love Triangle (2010-08-25 10:57)

Love is never very straight forward,

As once again my love for you proves this to me.
I realize now that I should have worked out something see
And then we could have worked out something see
And not to be stuck in this damn Love Triangle.
You have your boyfriend, I have my girl
Why then, do I think we will fit better?
But, I suppose in your way you re right
When you say you don t want to hurt her;
But that still leaves me in a Love Triangle
Chorus
Love Triangle
You re busy running my life: -
A girl I have, but I want another for my wife.
114
So perhaps with a little help from above
I ll be able to get the one I really love
And break up this Hosted Love Triangle
We talked quite a lot, or at least I did
And maybe you right, I should have lied
And not told you about her, but I can t
Cause if you d found out I d have died
And I would still have been stuck in a Love Trianle
Now I cannot sleep with my thoughts
As they keep returning to think of you girl
And I realize I don t know what to say
As without you, ill always be in a silly whirl
And in my heart I d still stuck in a Love Triangle

Unopened Love bud (2010-08-25 11:43)

I spoke to you once more today

And I realize the following words I should not say
But I feel in love with you once
And that feeling is still with me today;
Even though you think we should just stay friends
How many times haven t I wondered,
Wondered: - if things weren t the same:
Would you and I have been a pair,
And maybe even shared a surname,
And been happy forever after ?
I know its no use thinking that way
As things are the way they are
But this won t stop me saying what I have to say
As I m continually wishing on a falling star
That one-day I will know for sure.
I often make jokes with you
About the two of us becoming a pair
And you probably never took any notice
So I write these words to show I really care,
Care about you: More than what a friend should.
So please remember these few words
These words that comes out of my heart:
I really like you a lot see;
As to me you re a beautiful piece of priceless art
And my feeling for you increase your value for me.

My Philosoply on Life (2010-08-25 12:35)

What is the meaning of life?

If you know please tell me:-
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Some say its finding a compatible wife
Others: knowing how to help those in strife.
To me it means; - (1) being able to love
And having some special to receive it;
(2) Being able to worship the one above;
And (3) being remembered by those you love.
I ve seen people trying the first and last
But never caring much for the second
As they want to live in the lane marked fast
And in so doing never really achieve happiness that can last
My next question would then naturally be
What are we doing to find meaning in life?
Why I ask is quite simple see,
Cause everyone only cares for I; Myself and Me
So how do I achieve it you ask.
I m not sure but I m trying real hard
And I must admit it s quite a hard task
But I ll keep with it till I m put in a cask.
So why don t we all try
To achieve these three ideals
Cause then there ll be much less reason to cry
And none of us with the Devil will have to fry!!
God knows what your problem is
So carry your burdens and problems to his feet,
Ask for His guidance in all matters
And I m sure success and happiness you ll meet.

A girl called Bernadette (2010-08-25 16:06)

I met a girl called Bernadette

And now I m really glade we ve met
Cause she really intrigues me
And what that is what I like in a girl, see!
I know she ll probably think this poem s dumb
But it is the fault of her&
Cause when I see them, my brain goes numb.
(-Because they don t look like washing pegs!)
Why am I writing this poem?
I don t know either: but just wait:-
Maybe she and I will set up Home
If she turns out to be the ideal mate.
This is the end of the lyric
And to be quit honest, it is quite sick.

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Can I be sure? (2010-08-25 16:07)

A friend of yours has been whispering a lot in your ear lately and I m getting worried;
She seems to be carrying messages from other guys with whom I don t what you did
So tell me, can I be sure of your love?
Sometimes I wonder how its possible that a beauty like you can like a guy like me
and all I seem to get for an answer is that you like my personality;
but how do I know that will always keep you true?
I ve always tried to pretend that I m not the jealous type who watches you with other guys
But lately I just can t control myself and keep watching you to see if you tell any lies
Cause I m quite in love with you, that s for sure!
I was kinda wondering real heard about how much you care for me when I wrote this song
And that s why I ask you these questions so I can look in your eyes and see I m wrong
Cause now I m real sure of your love for me!!

Incomprehensible Poem - By: A Broken Heart (2010-08-25 16:08)

Its been a long time sine I wrote something decent

Something out of my heart that is really meant
And this is because my heart was too sore
But now I ve found out that to life there is more
More than just loving you
You did the same as the others
And I hate all girls for being mothers!
Now I feel heart healing
As Cupido to me a new hand is dealing
In the form of another Heart breaker!
But all of those who broke my heart
You were the only one about who I didn t get smart
So revel in the fact that you ve won
And I ll worry about what you done
As you girls are all the same!

You re the one for me! (Dedicated to Yolanda Esterhuisen) (2010-08-25 16:08)

Sitting here looking at you

I don t know what to say
Cause all I have on my mind
Is seeing you each and every day.
I know I have to study
And you also have many years ahead
But I m a patient kind of guy
So I ll just wait until we can get wed.
There s a bunch of stories about me
Stories about me being a Dad
But I know you won t believe them
117
Because you know I ain t that bad!
Your mom mounted at me the other day
And the worst part was: I didn t know what to say
But that has all been left behind
Cause now I have made up my mind
That you are the girl for me!

Being with you (2010-08-25 16:09)

I remember the first time we met

And now I m really happy we did
Even though I acted like a real wet;
Which you probably didn t even notice
Cause you were laughing too much.
Chorus
Your laugh is something I enjoy hearing
As it makes me think you re happy
And that s makes my heart want to sing
As it is me making you laugh.
Now I m sleeping out a lot
And my Dad has spoken to me about it
But I don t mind as it s you I got
And that s the most important thing
As I care about you!

Missing you! (2010-08-25 16:10)

You mean a lot to me

And I know its now too late to see
But I still wish these words I did utter
Instead of always nothing mutter
As to me you are lost
Even though I still want you back!
(No matter what the cost:
As in Love I ll make up for the money I lack.)

Wanting you Again (My love for you still lives) (2010-08-25 16:14)

I feel so sad these days

When I sit and think of what we had
And I wish things I could change
So they wouldn t turn out so bad!
But this is a useless hope
As you found someone new
118
And without you I ll just have to cope!
I m trying real hard to forget you;
To think just about what lies ahead
But all I do is revert to memories
When I lay myself down on my bed.
Memories of wonderful times we spent
When everything was happy
And every loving word we meant .
You once wrote down the words of a song,
And I like to think you meant what you said
When you wrote I just can t stop loving you!
Cause these are words that stuck in my head
As these words for me are true!
Now it seems you ve forgotten me
And that kind of makes me feel blue.
So many things have happened in between
That I wonder what is still to come
Whether things will work out for us
Or whether our feelings for each other
Will just go numb.
I m hoping it won t end that way:
So if you find someone else to love
Please forgive me for these things I say.
I m wondering whether I should give you these verses
Or just keep them for me alone to see
But that wouldn t be right
As it would just remind me of the hurt inside of me!
I don t know what I write
But I have to do something
As I just can t sleep tonight.
Please don t think I m forcing you to do
Anything
As I m willing to be a patient guy
So take your time deciding whether you want me back
Or if you d rather to me say good-buy.
I hope your choice is not the latter
Cause if you choose the first
I ll definitely start to feel better!
So no matter what you decide
Just remember this Collette:
I ll always be ready and waiting for you
And that s something on which you can bet!
Now as I end this poem
I d like to end this with a special wish:
I hope that one day we can set up home!

119
Freedom Flight (2010-08-25 16:16)

An eagle soars the sky,

Floating high above the earth,
He looks down on tiny specks of life
He knows not what they think,
Cares not!
Cause he is free.
Yet in life all this is a lie
For even from our birth
We are living lives filled with strife
Caring only for ourselves
Never others
All wishing to be free.
But all of you I ll defy
As I too am free
Soaring
Never captive
Yet, one day I ll be no more
And who ll remember?

Memories (2010-08-25 16:16)

Your beauty never ceases to amaze me

And I know now I never deserved your love
But I m thankful for what we had
And everyday I thank the one above
For loving memories we share!
Chorus
Oh these wonderful memories we share
Of so many fun times we had
Times when we were totally bare
Even though we weren t really Bad
Oh memories can t you stop eating at me
And just please, please leave me be!
Do you member the times&
We promised each other we d get wed?
That we fell asleep in each other arms?
And meant every word we said
When we said I love you! ?
How many times didn t I promise you the world?
Promise to forget your (and my) past?
Promise to love you forever and ever?
At least I ve kept the last
And I promise I always will!
Repeat chorus
Are these memories a blessing or a curse?
120
I don t know! But they are things I ll
Always in my heart nurse!

Captives of Freedom (2010-08-25 16:20)

High above the earth he soars

Alighting here, then there
Never still
He is free,
Can come and go when he wishes
He is King of the sky,
He is an eagle.
I too, feel akin to him
Never stopping, never still
Moving forth
Always free
Coming and going as I wish
Living out a lie
Pretending to live
Yet both of us are wrong
We are captives of freedom
We are caught by it
Longing for it,
Thirsting,
Never getting enough.
Yes mighty bird,
You and I are kin
Captives of freedom
Captives of life
Always free
Yet never!

Secrets (2010-08-25 17:05)

The words of songs run through my head

Scenes, flashes from the past
Remembering me of what I ve lost
What I ll never regain;
Lost forever.
I m always this way when I m lonely
Thinking back about the two of us
What we used to dream of
What we will never achieve;
Not together.
True love was supposed to be forever
Yet it seems to be a force
121
As it only remains in me
You have already forgotten;
Our paradise.
Now I weep when I m alone at night
Thinking on the past we used to share
Wishing I could have it back
Treasuring thoughts from the past,
Loving memories.
Maybe my secret dream will one-day be true
And you and I will be one
Sharing, regretting time lost
Going forth in life;
As one.

Wander Lust (2010-08-25 17:13)

What makes me so restless

Causes me to search
Looking, never finding
Continuing on this lonely path
Without ever getting rest,
Peace of mind?
I always blame others for this
Yet I know it seems from inside
Deep in my soul,
This search for something
Never minding the pain,
The pain I cause others.
I want answers,
Answers to questions not yet asked;
I want truth,
So I know how to lie;
I want knowledge
Knowledge to impress others with;
I want fame,
Yet standing in a cocoon of privacy;
I want things
Yet I never give to anyone,
Yes all this I want, and more
Yet none are what I seek;
So I will always have to keep searching.

The Blues (2010-08-25 17:35)

What Now?
Nothing
122
Where too?
Nowhere.
With whom?
No one
Why?
Don t know.
Will I accept this?
Why not!

Reality (2010-08-25 17:41)

Life used to be lonely and dreary

Then you came into it;
It was fun.
Then it
Ended.
Now it s lonely and dreamy again
Cause I m without you
living on my dreams
losing touch of
reality

No More (2010-08-25 17:58)

What am I living for

I ve no reason to live no more!
I use to manage
Now no more
I live on the edge
Now no more
I thought you really loved me
Now
No
More!

Friends (2010-08-25 17:59)

For what we are to receive, dear Lord

Make us truly doubly Thankful.
Friends in times of need
Who prove they are friends in deed,
In times of heart-ache
Our days to make,
When tears may fall
123
Or laughter won t come at all
They ll stand you by
Never letting you lay down and die
That s what being friends is all about,
This is stated without any doubt
Cause True Friends are Friends Forever!

Unexpected Love (2010-08-25 18:06)

What hit me?

This night of the 22nd I won t forget
Cause something really special happened
As our hearts (and bodies) eventually met.
I know I promised to forget
And tomorrow will be just another normal day
But inside me, my heart will be going wild
And I ve never ever had it feel this way.
Why weren t we willing to accept it?
Others saw it before we did
While we always joked about it
But only ourselves it seems we were trying to kid
Now, whatever happens between us
I hope we give it a chance to work
Otherwise we ll both end up sad
While in our hearts this love will lurk.
Tonight I m not going to be able to sleep
And if I do, I ll dream of you
Because tonight you and I said those three magic words
I Love You

Valentine 89 (2010-08-25 18:06)

Last night I promised you a poem

So now read this and think of me
And you might not have believed my words
But can now these feelings on paper see
It all started at registration
When you came in all dressed in pink
I nearly felt of my chain right then
Cause at the sight of my heart started to sink.
(Just don t ask why, O.K?)
Yesterday was lots of fun
I enjoy walking with you through town;
Even though I talked too much
And continuously acted like a clown.
But this is because you intrigue me
124
As its not often I meet a girl I admire
A girl who knows what she wants
And from responsibility never tire.
This poem is starting to sound real weird
And that s like my feeling towards you too
And my heart is going wild
Because I know I like you!

Something Read Something Said! (2010-08-25 18:07)

I always wanted to be a writer

And this is something I ll be I m sure
But the problem is what to write about
So people will sit up and take head.
That is why I wish my skin was whiter
So people will stop thinking they are more pure
Because they are wrong have no doubt
As we were all created equal
And that s why I wrote this poem:
So everyone the truth can read!

A Fleeting moment of Happiness (2010-08-25 18:07)

Tonight I got peace in my soul,

A song in my heart
And a smile on my lips
All because I know once more what it is to love.
I ve always said this feeling is not for me
I believe that loving was not possible
Because I never found someone
But now I have,
And it s you I know I love!

Brotherhood among us (2010-08-25 18:08)

Can t we all come and meet each other

And no matter what colour we may be
Be able to show we love one another
And then together we ll stand, you and me
The leaders of Tomorrow,
Planning for what is to come
Otherwise there will be lots of needless sorrow
Over killing which are quite dumb.
So come closer now and grab my hand
125
And we ll accept each other as brothers
And then together we ll be able to stand
To show our Father and Mothers
We want to plan for a common future
No matter what our race, colour or culture.

Why?? (2010-08-25 18:08)

Look at me my white brothers

Come closer to me
And show you care about the others
By letting us all live free
This request may sound funny
But you all are enjoying your lives
While we struggle for money
So we can feed our children and wives
Now I know what the laws are
But they are really quite unfair
And so if you ll lift the colour Bar
It will prove you really care.
So now that you ve heard my cry
Go home and ask yourselves; Why?

Child of Africa (2010-08-25 18:09)

My brother and I once lived together as one

But life was bad for me back then
You see, he s white while I m not
But, these are all rules set but mortal men
And I ve often wondered why they said such thing,
Things that really hurt me deep inside,
While they pretended they were kings.
Now I ve come to realize that they lied
Because we are all equal
And even though our skins don t match
Everybody should be entitled to follow his own will
But if I said this, the jail door behind me they d latch!
Now, I know these words may not mean a lot
But the truth is, they all I ve still got.

Legislation for informational privacy in Namibia (2010-08-30 14:41)

The ability to save information on a computer (for example in the central register) will also necessitate new
legislation to be promulgated. These laws are especially necessary in our Information and Communication
126
enabled society where information is stored on electronic retrieval systems.
Legislation for informational privacy
The Namibian Constitution states in Article 13 Privacy:
(1) No persons shall be subject to interference with the privacy of their homes, correspondence or communi-
cations save as in accordance with law and as is necessary in a democratic society in the interests of national
security, public safety or the economic well-being of the country, for the protection of health or morals, for
the prevention of disorder or crime or for the protection of the rights or freedoms of others.
The Constitution thus guarantees only Physical Privacy . The storage of personal and business information
( Informational Privacy ) must have legislation that will prevent misuse of this information. In addition,
the individual in Namibia must be able to access any, and all, information that is stored by the state (public
institutions).
There are thus things that are needed to guarantee informational privacy:
1. Data Protection Act;
2. Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations;
3. Freedom of Access to Information Act
Data Protection Act
The Data Protection Act gives you the right to know (access) the information being held on you. It also
sets certain key principles that anyone who handles personal information must comply with. The Act also
establishes an Information Commissioner. The data covered is any information which can be used to iden-
tify a living person. This includes names, birthdays, addresses and other contact details. It only refers to
information stored on computers.
The key principles of the Act must include:
" Data may only be used for the specific purpose that it was collected;
" Data may not be shared with others without permission of the individual whom such information is about
unless there is a legitimate reason;
" It is illegal for other parties to obtain this information without permission;
" Individuals have the right to the information about them subject to certain conditions;
" Personal information should not be kept longer than necessary;
" All businesses that collect personal information must register with the Commissioner; and
" Incorrect information must be corrected when it is brought to the attention of the data storage business.
Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations
These regulations must control the people that wish to send out electronic direct marketing, for example
email and text messages (SMS). Individuals have the right to refuse unsolicited marketing messages ( junk
mail ) by fax, phone email and text message. Companies and organisations have the right to refuse market-
ing messages by phone or fax.
A register needs to be created to store the individuals and companies that refuse to receive such marketing
messages.
Freedom of Access to Information Act
The Constitutions states in Article 95 Promotion of the Welfare of the People:
& (e) ensurance that every citizen has a right to fair and reasonable access to public facilities and services
in accordance with the law;
This Act must give the individual the right to obtain information being held by the state (public institutions)
unless there are good reasons that such information should be kept confidential. These institutions include
government departments, regional and local government as well as schools. (The access to information held
by private institutions is expected to be covered by the Data Protection Act.)

127
2.7 September

Panarotti’s Thursday eat all you can (2010-09-03 16:09)

Took my daughters out for a birthday celebration last night and they ganged up on me and wanted to go
to Panarotti’s for ”Eat all you can Thursday”. Well, we got there past seven and waited for almost an hour
and a half for a table (we were 9 people in total). I did not mind the wait, but when we sat down we were
informed the special only went till 9 ’clock.
Whoaw. I can eat as I like in half an hour. Nowhere in the advertising does it state it stops at 21H00.
Especially after waiting so long.
But would you believe it! the waiter arranged that we can pay the special price, and arranged at least five
bottomless pizza (including a seafood) for the same price.
I am not sure if it is because I have five daughters, or this is the normal service.
So from my side, congratulations to Panarotti’s Windhoek for good food and EXCELLENT service.
I hope we all get such service elsewhere this weekend.
”Service which is rendered without joy helps neither the servant nor the served. But all other pleasures and
possessions pale into nothingness before service which is rendered in a spirit of joy.”

Are Namibian coloureds a distinct cultural/indigenous group? (2010-09-20 14:42)

According to wikipedia:
A contemporary working definition of ”indigenous people” for certain purposes has criteria which would seek
to include cultural groups either:
before or its subsequent colonisation or annexation; or
alongside other cultural groups during the formation and/or reign of a colony or nation-state;
and who furthermore
have maintained at least in part their distinct cultural, social/organisational, and/or linguistic characteris-
tics, and in doing so remain differentiated in some degree from the surrounding populations and dominant
culture of the nation-state.
To the above, a criterion is usually added to also include:
peoples who are self-identified as indigenous, and/or those recognized as such by other groups.

A consumer law in Namibia should protect people who are renting (2010-09-23 17:01)

A Namibian Consumer Protection Act should specifically target unfair discrimination and enforce the right
of equality in the consumer market. The Act must put the onus on the landlord to prove that he is not
discriminating in any way against a tenant on the basis of things like race, gender, nationality, and even
income.
In addition, we believe the new Act should allow for automatic renewal of the rental agreement. This will
prevent landlords from using this as an excuse to terminate when the tenant wishes to stay. At present many
agents and landlords are using the end of the year contract to get rid of tenants so they can increase the rent
amount for the next person. Normally the rent will only go up by around ten percent, and the landlords are
pushing up the prices to the new tenants by a lot more.
Lastly, we propose that the Consumer protection Act must include the right to fair and honest dealings. No
physical force, coercion, undue influence, pressure, duress or harassment may be employed to evict a tenant
128
or compel them to sign a lease.”
As an example, I quote from personal experience.
Last year, I was a renting near to the Zoo Park in Windhoek. I was on the farm at the time and had made
arrangements as to my monthly payment. As agreed, I came from the farm and paid my outstanding rent
and prepaid for two months.
The owner in the meantime decided to cancel the lease agreement with all tenants and change the building
into office space. They thus gave all tenants two months notice to leave. I had paid a deposit so knew that
I still had sufficient funds with the agent till the end of the period.
But the renting company wanted to get rid of all the tenants and make sure they were gone. So the estate
agent ”forgot” to enter my late payment and had their lawyers prepare a judgement. As you can imagine, I
was very shocked to have the Sheriff of the Court appear at my door to throw me out. The worst part is
that the Sheriff took my furniture even though the outstanding amount on the account had been paid.
Of course, there was nothing I could do. The lawyer for the company was also a Director of the same
company and would not listen to any explanation.
Once the sheriff had sold my furniture, the lawyer had the audacity to let me know there was a shortfall on
the outstanding account.
I called the lawyer and estate agent and explained that they were using a wrong account and the estate agent
still owed me my deposit - which was more than any outstanding amount.
They promised to come back to me. Yeah right, almost a year later and still no response.
So what can you do before the law is in place?
You should write down the events that took place and make copies of all correspondence between yourself
and the landlord. Once you have completed a written explanation, send this to the Estate Agents Board of
Namibia. This is a statutory body under the Ministry of Trade and Industry responsible for making sure
these landlords and estate agents comply with the law.
Now you might wonder why I did not follow this advice. The Sheriff of the Court under instructions of the
agent had taken all my furniture including my computer equipment, thrown all my belongings on to the
street. Poof, all my documentation and proofs of payment were gone.
Interview with Milton Louw on the above issues:
1. Does Namibia have a Consumer Protection Act?
No. However, the Namibian consumer is protected by various other laws, mostly industry specific such as in
banking, insurance, medical, etc.
2. Is there plans to table such a law in parliament?
The Ministry of Trade and Industry has been talking to various role-players such as business, statutory
bodies, consumer groups, etc on what form the law should take. Their ”primary considerations were that
Namibian consumers were experiencing unscrupulous and unfair trading practices, and that existing avenues
to obtain redress are inadequate or completely absent.” A workshop on this topic was held in September
2009 and the Ministry of Justice was requested to prepare a draft law. We have not had any more feedback
since March this year.
3. What are the issues you would like to be put into the law? You referred in your email newsletter
and on the Internet to issues with people hiring house and flats?
A Namibian Consumer Protection Act should specifically target unfair discrimination and enforce the right
of equality in the consumer market. The Act must put the onus on the landlord to prove that he is not
discriminating in any way against a tenant on the basis of things like race, gender, nationality, and even
income.
4. How will this affect the complaints about high rentals in Namibia
We believe amongst others that the new Act should allow for automatic renewal of the rental agreement.
This will prevent landlords from using this as an excuse to terminate when the tenant wishes to stay. At
present many agents and landlords are using the end of the year contract to get rid of tenants so they can
increase the rent amount for the next person. Normally the rent will only go up by around ten percent, and
the landlords are pushing up the prices to the new tenants by a lot more.
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5. What about landlords or estate agents throwing out people on to the street
we propose that the Consumer protection Act must include the right to fair and honest dealings. No physical
force, coercion, undue influence, pressure, duress or harassment may be employed to evict a tenant or compel
them to sign a lease.”
6. What can a consumer do if they feel unfairly treated by an estate agent?
The Estate Agents Board is under the Ministry of Trade and Industry with the mandate to regulate and
control certain activities of estate agents in the public interest. They can be contacted about any complaint
and they have specific procedures to deal with complaints.

More Namibians have access to banking World Bank (2010-09-24 08:34)

By: Milton Louw

The banking population in Namibia has increased substantially in 2009 according to the World Bank s Fi-
nancial Access 2010 report released on Thursday, 16 September. The number of deposit account holders in
Namibia has grown by 23 percent, with statistics confirming the resilience of the seven commercial banks
during a year weighed down by the international financial crises.
According to the report, more than three quarters of the population (752 per 1000 adults) hold deposit
accounts and 20 percent have loans with financial institutions. In comparison, the report shows that sub-
Saharan Africa had an average of 163 deposit accounts per 1000 adults and only 28 bank loans per 1000
adults.
In addition the report shows that the disbursement of loans shrank across sub-Saharan Africa last year, with
Namibian loan accounts declining in volume by 36 percent.
The most remarkable was that Namibia scored the highest with 1185 Depositors with Other Depository
Corporations per 1000 adults. No other country on the Continent, or in any developing country for that
matter, scored as high. In fact, Namibia is placed 16th in the world. To put that in perspective, Austria at
number one scored 4785 and Italy, two places above Namibia, scored 1285 per thousand adults.
The Financial Access 2010 Report stresses consumer protection, financial literacy and rural, SMME and sav-
ings promotion as critical in the spread of services and products to unbanked populations. The World Bank’s
researchers note that while consumer protection legislation is in place in most countries, implementation and
enforcement is often lacking.
”Legislation is often broad and does not cover issues specific to the financial industry,” said a researcher.
”Only half of the economies (studied in the Report) have legal provisions restricting unfair and high-pressure
selling practices and abusive collection practices.
”Regulators in only about half of the economies are empowered to issue warnings or impose fines on financial
institutions violating consumer protection regulations. A public notice of violation - one of the most effective
deterrence tools - can be used in only about a third of economies.” According to the Report, Namibia scores
well across five critical areas, which include consumer protection, financial literacy and rural, SMME, savings
and microfinance promotion.
The Financial Access 2010 Report encompasses survey responses from 142 economies, including Namibia,
and analyses changes that took place in the banking landscape in 2009. The Financial Access 2009 Report
covered 139 economies.

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2.8 October

Motion on Unemployed Namibians with or without Professional Qualifications

(2010-10-19 13:39)

PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
FEBRUARY 2009
BY: Chief Ankama, SWAPO MP
Comrade Speaker, I regard this motion as an extraordinarily important one, not just to me but to other
many Namibians if not all. This is the third time that I move this motion in the house. It first lapsed during
the first term of 2008 when parliament went into recess and then re-introduced during the last term of last
year but ended without reaching its intended goal, the goal of finding a lasting directive to solving unem-
ployment situation in Namibia. Now comrade Speaker, I am here again standing to re-introduce the motion
on unemployed Namibians with or without professional qualifications, accompanied by some amendments.
The motion seeks to:
1. discuss, assess and ascertain the seriousness of unemployed Namibians with professional trainings and
qualifications obtained from recognized educational institutions here in Namibia or abroad;
2. this motion equally should include in our discussion the general unemployment of all able bodied people in
Namibia in view of government sponsored initiated projects such as the green schemes, agricultural colleges
in the country and vocational training institutions as a matter of example.
3. This motion should further challenge the government and private sector partnership to open up in the
provision of relevant skills and creation of job opportunities for the unemployed Namibians.
Correspondingly this motion urges that unemployment be critically investigated in relation to our national
investment policies and further discover the unemploy-ability of all the above mentioned people for recom-
mendation and appropriate action in favour of their predicament.
RATIONALE
We all know or see many Namibian graduates from the University of Namibia, Polytechnic, Vocational train-
ing institutions, colleges of education and some with foreign qualifications. Individuals as they are, they talk
about their disappointment and frustrations with regard to institutions where they obtained qualifications.
They also talk about a corrupt recruiting system in both the public and private sector. That people with
no professional qualifications, for instance with grade 12 are being preferred for professional job opportunities
above trained candidates. This may be the reason why some divisions, departments and offices both in public
and private services, do not perform to the expected standard of their clients.
Further, when we come to work every day, we see many able bodied Namibians sitting at traffic lights or
along the street pavements in hope for someone to pick them up for a casual one off job for a day if lucky.
Many of these are very young Namibians whose energy could be maximally utilised for the good of this
country.
Comrade Speaker, hon. Members, we are all witnesses to this degrading situation of unemployed Namibians
with or without qualifications. Many if not all of these people are very young, energetic, full of zest and thus
able to do some good work.
However the questions are;
1. Why and how come that we keep on training people for fun while Namibia is in dire need for skilled
people?
2. Why can t we create incubation centres or units within the sectors of Agriculture, forestry, construction
or fishing industry just as an example for us to produce?
These could help equip the unemployed Namibians with practical skills. Such incubation centres can collab-
orate in terms of academic theory with our national institutions of education and training for a joint certi-
fication of the in-service trainees. After graduation, those who wish can then be organised in co-operative
companies with start-up facilities and grow themselves both socially and economically into the world of au-
131
thenticity.
Others may want to go their own way by establishing own companies or sell themselves to work abroad
because of their skills, and thereby bringing money into Namibia. The system of incubation centres /units
will also help the country in general to unlock competition of productivity and trade, thus stimulating fast
economic growth.
APPROACH
Comrade Speaker, hon. Members
I am 1001 % convinced that establishment of a centralized research centre in the country, with decentralized
data bank to, readily facilitate access of data for private and collective research and planning, is essential. I
know we have a number of research units in various institutions around the country, such as in ministries,
institutions of education and those in private, but do you know how difficult it is to access data from many
of these institutions? This is one of the many reasons why we fall short in planning to determine e.g., the
number of classroom needed for the first graders, space of learners for grade 10, we fail to determine how
many math, science teachers we will need in 5 years time or the quota for electrical engineers we shall need
in 10 years time.
Having a one-stop research centre in the country does not mean that we should to away with the existing
ones. It simply translates in improving our efficiency in planning, budgeting and service delivery. With an
ICT act soon in place, ministries, entities and individual citizens may be able to access data on line when
they so want for own purposes.
In simple terms, this will help individual students or anybody so wish to do appropriate planning, advising,
setting up projects goals, reviewing successes of programs, prioritising students careers etc, etc.
Comrade Speaker, hon. Members
To address the situation of unemployment and do better placement of our professional cadres where they
can perform with vigour, we need to plan better, and to do so, we need to be guided by empirical data. Data
that are correlated, continually updated and data that are ever accessible when needed. This is a necessary
foundation for us to meet our national developmental agenda.
Having this in place, we will have low risk of having both semi and professional trained human resource
roaming our streets.
In addition, we will be in a better position as a country to tackle the overall unemployment situation coun-
trywide.
CONCLUSION
I appeal that this motion be discussed with the zeal it deserves to lead to a desirable resolution. Further it
is my appeal that finally this motion be referred to an appropriate committee for research, public input and
proper recommendations.
So I move comrade Speaker!

Contribution to the Employment Service Bill By Chief Ankama (2010-10-19 14:46)

PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
September 2010
BY Chief Ankama, SWAPO MP & Deputy Minister: MWT
Comrade Speaker
Fellow MPs
The Bill on the floor of this eminent House in my view is long overdue. Almost two years ago for three con-
secutive sessions of parliament I tabled here a motion on unemployed Namibians both professional trained
and those without. When I motivated the said motion for the first time, the idea was to get a prompt
reaction from the floor of this august house across the political spectrum represented here. Sadly the debate
132
was shoddy and it had to tabled for the second time in hope for improved contributions.
Even for the second motivation many of us in this house did not take the motion on unemployed Namibians
as serious shown by the poor debate and therefore the motion was re-tabled for the third consecutive time.
Comrade Speaker
Honourable Members
The Employment Service Bill squarely responds to motion on unemployed Namibians with or without pro-
fessional qualifications as tabled during the last session of our parliament which was aimed to; (quoting
myself-open quote)
1. discuss, assess and ascertain the seriousness of unemployed Namibians with professional trainings and
qualifications obtained from recognized educational institutions here in Namibia or abroad;
2. which further examine the general unemployment of all able bodied people in Namibia in view of gov-
ernment sponsored initiated projects such as the green schemes, agricultural colleges in the country and
vocational training institutions as a matter of example.
3. it challenged the government and private sector partnership to open up in the provision of relevant skills
and creation of job opportunities for the unemployed Namibians.
4. and insisted that unemployment be critically investigated in relation to our national investment policies
and further discover the unemploy-ability of all those unemployed for recommendation and appropriate ac-
tion in favour of their predicament. (Close quote)
Comrade Speaker
Honourable Members
Now the Employment Service Bill before us as introduced by the Hon. Minister of Labour and Social welfare,
seeks our undivided support for us to meet the unemployment situation in our country head-on and thereby
suppress financial dependency, economic trauma and criminal activities just to mention but a few.
My focus is more on the Employment Service bureau article 13 and my concern is mostly centred on the
questions of;
1. how much we know about employees and employers out there including private institutions and individuals
who by hooks or crooks hop from one employment opportunity to the other without notice (as employees) or
those (employers) who fire and hire job-seekers without registration. In other words, the regulatory mecha-
nism thereof.
2. Reference to the motion on unemployed Namibians with or without professional qualifications tabled
earlier here I called for the
Establishment of a centralized research centre in the country, with decentralized data bank to, readily facili-
tate access of data for private and collective research and planning. This tallies with article 14 sub-articles 1
and 2 under the heading integrated employment information system on page 10 of the Employment Service
Bill.
Comrade Speaker
Honourable Members
I cannot let go without taking issues with the current system of recruitment and filling of vacancies in our
ministries and perhaps state owned enterprises. One can call it a confusing and perhaps discriminatory or
some kind of a pathetic recruitment system. Such a questionable system comrade speaker is bamboozled
by individuals within our employment, those dishonest people who are entrusted with responsibilities of
recruitment and management. It may partly be due to a number of conflicting laws we have which some
may need be repealed or those which may need amendment including the public service act and the likes of
tender board act and some others.
Comrade Speaker
Honourable Members
Recruitment in our system has become a serious concern. Some departments in our ministries and agencies
are turned into mini-empires and are run in a mafia style management where some individual heads of such
units freeze vacancies which budgeted for on their establishment for years allegedly waiting for their next of
kin to graduate from institutions of learning or to complete the required years needed for consideration of
133
promotion. Instead other Namibians who may be readily qualified for promotion are prevented from applying
as a result of frozen vacant posts.
I was also reliably informed that even foreigners are benefitting from these crooking behaviours by being
extending their contracts indefinitely.
Comrade Speaker
Honourable Members
It is therefore in my view not just enough to pass the Employment Service Bill alone without identifying
those laws that need be repealed, those need amendment and those need harmonised. I further would like
stress review of policies and regulation which go along with the laws that we are enacting in order to simplify
for example the SWAPO party election manifesto which is the SWAPO party government working document
leading this vibrant nation towards vision 2030.

Proposal for Joint Education Programme for Israeli and Palestinian Administrators
(2010-10-25 08:50)

Background
The Israeli Palestinian conflict is an on-going dispute between the Jewish and Arab peoples living in Pales-
tine under Ottoman or British rule.
There are numerous issues to resolve before a lasting peace can be reached, including strong emotions relat-
ing to the conflict on both sides; Palestinian concerns over Israeli settlements and land; status of Jerusalem;
Israeli security concerns over terrorism, safe borders, incitements, violence and Palestinian refugee issues.
These are encapsulated as the six core issues:
" Jerusalem
" Palestinian refugees of the 1948 war
" Israeli settlements in the West Bank
" Israeli security concerns
" International status
" Water resources
Peace proposals
Generally speaking, the peace process is driven by the US and Israel s Arab neighbours, most prominently
Egypt. The proposals are for either:
a. Two-state solution
This would entail the creation of an independent Palestinian state alongside an independent Jewish state.
b. One-state or binational state
This would mean all of Israel, the Gaza Strip, and West Bank would become a bi-national state with equal
rights for all
In either of these scenarios, it is expected that Israeli and Palestinian administrators will have to work to-
gether to manage the day-to-day running of their state(s). These include issues such as border control of
goods and people, education systems, water resource management, etc.
Education Proposal
It is proposed that present and future administrative employees (public administration graduates) be iden-
tified from both sides and be invited to participate in training programmes in Germany that focus on these
specific administrative issues. The curriculum will focus not only on the necessary educational qualification
necessary but will also include classes on integration, and the potential solutions for the six core issues.
It is also possible to have some of the classes presented by recognised experts (in administration issues and
politics) from both sides of the conflict.

134
Namibia: WACS cable will arrive in 2011 but monopoly legacy holds back prices and
growth (2010-10-25 09:01)

Namibia s regulatory position is like stepping back ten years if you re more used to the competitive rough
and tumble in Africa s more developed markets. The historic incumbent Telecom Namibia still has some
monopoly privileges and the new incumbent, Government-owned mobile operator MTC is in danger of be-
having in much the same way. Sadly the country has closed its regulator with a view to opening a new one.
However, this has meant all things regulatory have gone into a holding pattern. Russell Southwood looks at
the key market barriers that are holding things back.
Historic incumbent Telecom Namibia has an infrastructure monopoly and although the power utility Nam-
Power has fibre assets, it has only recently tendered them: MTC (which may build a link to South Africa),
Telecom Namibia and some ISPs are all interested in the capacity.
Telecom Namibia invested in what was then Africa s only real international cable, SAT3 but didn t invest
enough to get a landing station. This is something it has regretted ever since because for many years South
Africa s incumbent Telkom South Africa would over-charge it for transit to the SAT3 landing station in
South Africa.
But now if you want to get fibre access to South Africa to Telkom South Africa s SAT3 landing station, you
have no choice but to use Telecom Namibia. According to one of its customers: The route this side of the
border is 45 % more expensive than what Telkom South Africa offers (in a competitive environment) on a
distance basis on the other side of the border. Telecom Namibia also has a deal with Neotel (in which it is
a shareholder) for Seacom bandwidth, further limiting alternative competitive offers.
The new WACS cable will arrive in Q2, 2011 but there are understandable concerns in the market that
Telecom Namibia will be the monopoly owner of the only international landing station with no other inde-
pendent competitive route to South Africa being available. If MTC opened up a route, it would simply be a
second Government company offering an alternative and one run by a management that is probably the least
price competitive on the continent. In other African countries joint public-private partnerships are being set
up to ensure equitable access to the landing station and fair, cost-oriented pricing but there is not even a
discussion about this in Namibia.
Pricing has not been set and Telecom Namibia s formal response to its customers is it s too early to say .
But well-informed industry sources say US $ 1,686 per mbps has been discussed. Currently customers are
paying US $2,248, about three-quarters of the current satellite equivalent. Both prices seem very high when
compared to the kind of wholesale prices available across the border in the more competitive South Africa.
Inevitably this has a knock-one effect to retail pricing strategy for the Internet. One aggrieved customer told
us: At a retail level, we re paying US $15-20 per mbps. It s immoral and they should be sent to hell for it .
Telecom Namibia is owned by NPTH, a state holding company that also holds the Post Office, the new
mobile incumbent MTC and a properties division for all three companies. The CEO of Telecom Namibia is
the Chair of MPTH. Whilst most acknowledge that there has yet been no practical example of a conflict of
interest, it is undoubtedly as one person told us a fundamentally incestuous way of running the different
companies. There are no currently plans to privatise Telecom Namibia. It has international shareholdings
in Multitel in Angola and Neotel in South Africa but looks likely it might pull out of the former.
Both policy and regulation in the sector seem to be in a holding pattern for as one industry insider told us:
The biggest problem is the Namibia Communications Commission (NCC), which is supposed to be changed
to the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN). There s very few staff left from NCC
and not enough are qualified. There were only 7 staff when NCC ceased to operated. There has been no
sign yet of the Gazetted announcement promised in early October to give life to the body.
A good example of the impact of the regulatory holding pattern is number portability. NCC wanted number
portability (which might open up competition in the mobile market) but whether this goes ahead, it will now
wait for CRAN to get its feet under the desk . The new Chair of CRAN is Lazarus Jacobs, a businessman,
co-owner of the Windhoek Observer and a pioneering stand-up comedian (No jokes, please.)
In terms of the mobile market, there are three players: Telecom Namibia (with its Switch product); Leo
135
and MTC. Switch (a CDMA 2000 product) was an attempt by Telecom Namibia to act as a spoiler to Leo s
entrance into the market. There was subsequently an argument as to whether the service should be limited
to the towns only and in the end there was a trade-off in which it got permission to have national coverage in
exchange for there being more than one international gateway. It says it currently has 200,000 subscribers.
However, Switch is likely to be closed down and Telecom Namibia will go into GSM.
This makes Leo, which was launched 3.5 years ago, the main challenger. It was set up by local investors
including NamPower and Old Mutual with a Norwegian management contractor. Eventually 100 % of its
shares were bought by what was then Orascom s Telecel subsidiary. By all accounts, it has the cheapest
network to call on but has not made much of dent on MTC, which had many years as sole operator in which
to entrench itself. Leo started to offer 3G in Windhoek a couple of months ago and has recently launched
Blackberry handsets.
MTC is the largest mobile player and is 66 % owned by the Government through NPTH and 34 % by
Portugal Telecom, which provides strategic management and key personnel. It is offering iPhones (which it
did before South Africa) and iPads but does not have a Blackberry offer. It has 85 % of voice business and
probably 60 % of all markets by value, enough for it to be considered as having significant market power.
There is an agreement between CRAN and the Competition Commission on addressing issues of this kind
either jointly or by CRAN alone but action will depend on CRAN getting its teeth into the barriers that
affect the market.
None of the mobile operators operate m-money services like M-Pesa but Mobipay was recently launched. The
Bank of Namibia gave Mobicash Payment Solutions authorisation to operate a mobile payment system where
clients pay for goods, as well as transfer money, using money that is virtually stored on their cellphones.
The absence of number portability makes it hard for the challenger to peel off new subscribers from the
incumbent mobile operator: People don t shift their number easily, was the refrain from all sides. Leo does
dual SIM card Samsung handsets (in which unusually, both SIMS are active and you don t have to switch
manually) in an effort to overcome this problem.
In terms of the Internet, there are probably around 120,000 subscribers and MTC has
3G subscribers in the low tens of thousands. By all accounts, it is a relatively slow-moving and conservative
market. There are no signs of triple play offers and no e-commerce worth speaking of.
Telecom Namibia s iWay subsidiary is the largest market player with 60 % of the market and it launched
ADSL two years ago. The key players are: MTN Business or corporate customers (formerly Verizon/UUNet);
ITN (locally owned) and Africa Online (Telkom South Africa) which is completing its merger with MWeb.
Telecom Namibia supplies ADSL wholesale to ISPs but it took one ISP 15 months to get a reseller agreement
and obviously it needs to forced to offer wholesale and retail in an equitable way to all players in the market.
ITN and Africa Online offer Wi-MAX services.
Although small in population terms, Namibia has a buoyant economy and a great deal more potential than
is currently being realised. Perhaps the arrival of CRAN will help take off the artificially imposed brakes
but don t hold your breath.

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Edited: October 27, 2010