ee

Fr
February/march 2018

Consumer News
ISSN 2026-710X
your voice

• Namibian Budget 2018/2019

• Meatco advises caution to the public
• Modest house price growth of 4% in 2017
• Bank Windhoek invites entrepreneurs

Namibia’s gem
quality diamond
are the best
in the world
 The Team
Publisher
Consumer News
General Manager/Editor
Willem Gariseb
081 249 8161
085 551 9337
consumernews@iway.na
Editorial
Freelance Journalists
Photos
Freelance Photographers & Internet
Contents
• Namibian Budget 2018/2019 P4-5
• Meatco advises caution to the public
P5
• Namibia’s gem quality diamond are
the best in the world P6
• Independence Day Celebrations and
dedication to Republican unity P8
• Modest house price growth of 4% in
2017 P10
• Securing financing for SMEs P11
• Africa’s population explosion is a tick-
ing time bomb P12
• Bank moving you forward with Pay-
Pulse P14
• Bank Windhoek invites entrepreneurs
P16
POWERING A
• Agribank explains loans P17
BRIGHTER NAMIBIA
• Review of import conditions for ready-
to-eat foods from SA P19
It began 28 years ago, the switching on of a new era and the surge to an • Independence celebrations hit Tsumeb
empowered future. Today, we proudly continue to power our nation and our P20
people, unit by unit, towards an even brighter and more powerful tomorrow.
Happy Independence Day!
• World Consumer Rights Day P22
• Bank Windhoek to trade Chinese
Yuan P23
• AB INBEV NAMIBIA WINS PRESTIG-
IOUS BREWERY AWARDS P25
Namibia Power Corporation (Pty) Ltd
P. O. Box 2864, Windhoek, 15 Luther Street
Tel: +264 61 205 4111 | Fax: +264 61 232 805 • Cab App service ‘lefa’ is officially
www.nampower.com.na
launchedly launched P26
Editor’s Note
It has become such a regular event that Sin
taxes are increased during a budget that many
people don’t bother to ask whether they will, but
only to enquire by how much.
This year’s budget was a sweet-bitter budget
as the minister had to find money to plug sever-
al holes. Obviously this was done by increasing
taxes. To the relief of many, the minister did not
follow his South African counterpart by increas-
ing VAT, but several other increases will affect
consumers.
The increases are between 8.5% and 10% and
they were introduced retrospectively with effect
from 22 February 2018. The new excise duty rates
increases are as follows:
Willem Gariseb
Malt beer 10.0%
Unfortified wine 8.5 %
general manager
Fortified wine 6.0 %
Sparkling wine 10.0 %
Ciders & alcoholic fruit beverages 10.0 %
Spirits 8.5 %
Cigarettes 8.5 %
Cigarette tobacco 8.5 %
Pipe tobacco 8.5 %
Cigars 8.5 %
The Minister will also introduce an additional 5% national “sin” tax on alcohol and tobacco
products for national revenue purpose.
Things have been quiet on the consumer front and the only issue of major proportions was
the outbreak of listeriosis in neighbouring SA and the a single case (so far) in Namibia . Once
the source of infection had been determined, the authorities immediately went to work to
have the offending items removed from the shelves of our supermarkets and shops.
Our retailers were also quick to be pro-active and, in many cases did not wait for offical-
dom. Pick n Pay was quick on the draw and removed all items from the factories involved
from their shelves.
Other followed and it remains to be seen how quickly the smaller retailers away from urban
Namibia will react.
All products such as polonies, smoked russians and other russians, viennas, sausages,
frankfurters, all types of hams and salamis produced under the following brands: Enterprise,
Renown, Bokkie, Mielikip and Lifestyle produced by Enterprise Polokwane (ZA 33), Enterprise
Foods Germiston (ZA 126)
All ready-to-eat meat products from Rainbow Chicken (RCL) Foods (ZA 32). 
Namibia has stopped the importation of processed products such as polonies, smoked
russians and other russians, viennas, sausages, frankfurters, all types of hams and salamis
from these three establishments.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) and Ministry of Health and Social Services will
be implementing random sampling and testing of imported and locally produced ready-to-
eat foods for all microbes including Listeria monocytogenes bacterium.
Listeriosis food poisoning is caused by eating foods contaminated with Listeria monocy-
togenes bacterium. The disease can be more severe in pregnant women, young children and
the elderly as well as other immune compromised persons.
Namibiś manufacturers are deemed safe as their meat is processed in Namibia and is not
imported. Several, for instance Windhoek Schlachterei, has also assure the public their meat
is safe to eat.
You deserve more ...
Our mission is to create a platform for you the Namibian consumer, who
strives to see improvement in the value of goods and services and are
savvy enough to spot misleading advertising and poor quality products and
services. You deserve more, and together we have power in numbers, so we
welcome your contributions, feedback, acknowledgements and your voice
on products and services that need our investigation.
Consumer groups Contact details
Namibia Consumer Protection Group: Milton Louw. E-mail: miltonlouw@gmail.com
Namibia Customer Service Institute: Jon Allen. E-mail:csinstitute@iway.na
Website: www.namibiacsi.com
Namibian Consumer Lobby: Bob Ziekenoppasser. Te: 064 - 46 1461 or 081 284 8000
Namibian Standards Institution: Tel: 061 38 6400 / Queries: query@nsi.com.na
Website: www.nsi.com.na
Namibian Budget 2018/2019  Meatco advises Cran protects
consumers

High impact initiatives caution to from being

charged high

towards prosperity the public collection fees for

outstanding debts
Meatco has recently come across concerning
social media posts regarding the listeria outbreak
Introduction and affected products in neighbouring South Africa.
Meatco is greatly shocked and appalled by an image
Total expenditure is revised to N$ 66.5bn for 2017/2018 – this comprises of of our Eloolo canned beef product being circulated The Communications Regulatory and resolved as follows:
a 3.5% once off increase to correct for arrears spending in the prior year along with the article(s) relating to South Africa and Authority of Namibia (CRAN) is mandat- 1. MTC may not charge consumers a
and equates to 6.9% increase from N$ 62.2 billion of actual spending during products unrelated to Meatco. ed to ensure consumers are protected collection commission of 18% on any
the 2016/2017 year. Based on estimated revenue and expenditure the Meatco would like to categorically caution the pub- from exploitation and abuse in respect debts emanating from service level
budget deficit is estimated at 5.4% of GDP. The estimate is in line with the lic to stop spreading the image of our Eloolo canned of price, quality, variety of services and agreements for the provision of telecom-
Mid-Year Budget Review of November 2017. beef product because the product and all other user equipment supplied. munication services;
Meatco products pose no threat connected to listeria It is therefore and in line with CRAN’s 2. All debts arising from subscriber
The tax changes are anticipated to generate about N$500 million in revenue, or the articles relating to news in South Africa. Meatco Consumer Regulations that a consumer agreements between consumers and
but will only become effective once gazetted. Expectations are that changes, will continue to vigorously monitor social media and complaint was received during 2013 MTC are to be charged a collection
apart from sin taxes, will be gazetted during 2019. Sin taxes are effective from 22 other platforms in relation to the subject of listeria from a consumer complaining that he commission of 10% only in line with the
February 2018. and appeal to the public to not spread news that may was charged a collection commission Magistrate’s Court Rule; and
Oscar Wilde said: "Our ambition should be to rule ourselves, the true kingdom cause harm to our world renowned and loved Meatco of 18% due to a debt that arose from a 3. The Magistrate Court Rules are
for each one of us; and true progress is to know more, and be more, and to do products. subscriber agreement for the provision aimed at ensuring that tariffs that have
more." “Given all the processing in the abattoirs, it of telecommunications services a bearing on collection of debts are rea-
In an effort to encourage business development and job creation, instruments is essential that Quality Assurance with Mobile Telecommunications sonable, fair and equitable. The charges
will be introduced and developed to support SME’s and start-ups. It is not clear is maintained. All Meatco's Limited (“MTC”). by the debt collectors are not exempt
what kind of instruments and/ or benefits the Ministry is considering here. Further- processes are in keeping with MTC’s Subscriber Agreement from the Magistrate Court Rules.
more, the Minister did not make mention of presumptive taxes for SME’s that have international standards, and states that if the subscriber
been mentioned in previous budget speeches and that have been under investiga- testing of the meat is done daily breaches the contract, MTC Aggrieved and affected consumers
tion by the Ministry for some time now. (Deloitte) at Meatco's internal laboratory, shall be entitled to recover all are encouraged to manage their cases
Commercial activities of charitable, religious and educational institutions says Meatco Quality Assurance legal and other cost which directly with MTC. If such consumers
Currently all income earned by registered religious, charitable and education- Executive, Rosa Katjivena. shall include 18% collection feel their cases have not been addressed
al organisations of a pubic character whether or not supported by government Due to our stringent quality as- commission that may be within 14 days from the date in which it
grants are exempt from tax. surance methods, Meatco would like legally recovered from the was formally reported to MTC, then they
The proposal will do away with the exemption on the income from commercial to guarantee the safety and quality of subscriber by MTC. should follow CRAN’s consumer com-
activities of such institutions. Careful consideration should be given to the impact our products. The Authority concluded plaint procedures.
this could have on institutions that are supporting government efforts through
education, health care etc. where commercial profits are reinvested to achieve
objectives of these institutions.
account fiscal drag except for the introduction of a new bracket for • Ciders & alcoholic fruit beverages 10.0 %
Profit tax on betting and gaming entities income over N$2.5 million. The proposal is to reduce the tax rate in • Spirits 8.5 %
A profit tax for betting and gaming entities will be investigated by the ministry. the lower tax bracket from 18% to 17% , to increase the rate for the • Cigarettes 8.5 %
This proposal seems to be an increase in the tax rate for these entities from 32% to current top bracket from 37% to 39% and to introduce a new tax • Cigarette tobacco 8.5 %
37%  bracket for income over N$2.5 million at a tax rate of 40%. • Pipe tobacco 8.5 %
The aim of these proposed changes is to relieve the tax liability for • Cigars 8.5 %
Deepening the current hybrid tax system low income earners and reinforce the progressive tax system. This
The Namibian tax system is sourced based, i.e. Namibian and non-Namibian objective seems to be achieved as an individual earning N$75 000 per The Minister will also introduce an additional 5% national “sin”
residents are taxed on all income derived from a source within or deemed to be annum will save N$250 per annum (saving of 0.33%) while an individ- tax on alcohol and tobacco products for national revenue purpose.
within Namibia. The deeming provisions essentially, allow for certain foreign ual earning N$ 3 million per annum pay N$ 34 500 more per annum This seems to be an additional tax, outside the SACU pool levy. The
earned income to be taxed in Namibia. It is proposed that the deeming provision (increase in tax of 1.15%).. question is whether this is agreed with other SACU members in terms
be deepened to bring in more foreign income earned by Namibian residents into of the SACU agreement.
the Namibian tax net. In principle, we have no objection to this proposal. Howev- Sin taxes
er, we recommend that tax credit relief provisions be introduced to avoid double The 2018/2019 excise duty rates were reviewed in line with the Fuel levy
taxation of the same income, especially in the light of Namibia’s limited tax treaty provision of the SACU Agreement. The increases are between8.5% The Minister further announced an increase in the fuel levy by 25
network. and 10% and they will be introduced retrospectively with effect from c/l for all levied fuel products.
22 February 2018. The new excise duty rates increases are as follows:
Individual tax rates Tax Administration Reforms
The Minister proposed a change to the individual tax rates, for the first time • Malt beer 10.0% Some of the main tax administration reforms for 2018/2019 will
since 2013. • Unfortified wine 8.5 % include:
The Minster did not specifically mention a change in the brackets to take into • Fortified wine 6.0 % The establishment of the Namibia Revenue Agency by 1 March
• Sparkling wine 10.0 % 2019; The roll-out of the Integrated Tax System by July 2018;

4 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 5


Kennedy Hamutenya, Chief Ex-
ecutive Officer of Namib Desert
Diamonds (NAMDIA)
Namibian diamonds are of the highest
quality in the world. The world’s diamond
manufacturers and diamantaires, therefore,
have a great appetite for these precious
stones. This is the view of Kennedy Hamuten-
ya, Chief Executive Officer of Namib Desert
Diamonds (NAMDIA), which was established
in 2016 “to discover the price of Namibia’s
rough diamonds in the international market”
According to Hamutenya, NAMDIA can play a
significant role in entrenching Namibia’s eco-
nomic independence. “It is imperative that we as
Namibians take ownership of our decisions and
ensure that our strategies towards self-reliance
are successfully implemented. And part of those
decisions is for us – as Namibians – to be able
to exercise our sovereignty, especially over the
God-given natural resources for the improved
socio-economic development of our country and
its people,” Hamutenya says.
NAMDIA was established in 2016 by the Gov-
ernment of the Republic of Namibia to serve as a
“window on the international diamond market”.
This implies that NAMDIA can, through its Pur-
chase Entitlement from the Namibia Diamond
Trading Company (NDTC) of 15% representative
cut-off of the NAMDEB Holdings production, go
outside of the traditional sales system. This is an
outcome of the Sorting, Valuing, Sales and Mar-
keting Agreement concluded in 2016 between
the Namibian Government and De Beers, which
amongst others, made provision for greater
allocation of local diamond production to the
local diamond industry and which ultimately led
to the establishment of NAMDIA.
In terms of this agreement, NAMDIA BUYS 15%
of NAMDEB Holding’s run-of-mine production
from NDTC. “It must be understood that NAMDIA
BUYS the diamonds from NDTC and then engages
6 Consumer News
/TNM634
Namibia’s
gem quality
diamond
are the best
in the world
ENJOY
MORE
FREEDOM
potential buyers to offer best prices possible for
these highly sought-after goods,” Hamutenya
says.
Hamutenya also explains that there is no
homogenous price for diamonds. “In simple
terms, diamonds are valued based on the four
“Cs” of each diamond, which are CARAT WEIGHT
(size); CLARITY (quality), CUT (shape of the
diamond) and COLOUR. Each stone is unique in
character in terms of colour, clarity, shape and
carat which is a measure of weight. It is crucial
that each individual stone is valued according to
this criteria. And so it stands to reason that there
cannot be a one-size-fits-all price for diamonds.
One common indicator is the average price per
carat, which is calculated by dividing the sums of
the prices of all individual diamonds by the total
carat weight.
Since its establishment in April 2016, NAMDIA
has made great strides. Some of its short-term
achievements, included the appointment of its
Board of Directors and the Executive Management
Team, completion of its own building to operate
from and perhaps most importantly, it has made
ON 21 MARCH 2018
over 14 diamond sales transactions to date.
Hamutenya maintains a positive outlook for
the diamond industry in 2018. “Although con-
tinued challenges facing the diamond industry
is the question of long term demand for natural
diamonds with the introduction of man-made
synthetic diamonds, we in Namibia stand strong
on the premise that we have some of the finest
high gem quality stones in the world for which
there will always be a demand. And that demand This ONCE-OFF DATA is only valid for use from 21 - 31 March 2018.
allows us to fetch a premium price for our stones,
through which we can meaningfully contribute
towards the socio-economic development of our
country. We are confident that we will, remain
relevant for a long time yet in the global diamond
industry,”, Hamutenya concludes.
FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 7
 The Presidency shares the genuine concerns of those
alarmed at the culture of littering and contamination
of our precious environment. Namibians must be rest
assured that consultations to finalize the date and
details of the clean-up campaign are ongoing.

Independence It’s time for a new chapter

Saying that Independence
Day remains a cardinal act
of fostering nation building,
cohesion and solidarity,
President Hage Geingob’s office
issued a statement stating
that the temptation to dilute its
meaning is unwarranted.
Here is the full statement
In his speech at the inauguration of the City of Windhoek build-
ing on 09 October 2017, the President of the Republic of Namibia,
Dr Hage Geingob expressed concern about the increasing culture
of littering throughout the country. The President announced
that he would be spearheading a national clean-up campaign.
President Geingob also used the occasion to challenge the City
of Windhoek to reclaim its rightful position as the cleanest city in
Africa.
The Presidency shares the genuine concerns of those alarmed
at the culture of littering and contamination of our precious
environment. Namibians must be rest assured that consultations
to finalize the date and details of the clean-up campaign are ongo-
ing. The date for the campaign will be released within the next two
weeks, and the Presidency wishes to see all Namibians participate
in the designated National Clean-Up Day.
Proposals that a clean-up campaign should take place in lieu of
Independence Day celebrations are misplaced. After a protracted
and bitter war of liberation for which many sacrificed their lives,
Day Celebrations in Namibia’s diamond industry.
and dedication to The story of Namibia’s diamond industry started in 1908 when a young Zacharias
Republican unity Lewala picked up a shiny diamond near Lüderitz. This set off the biggest diamond
rush in history. For nearly 90 years, the industry continued to grow and Namibian
diamonds became sought after, the world over.
In 1994 the Namibian Government took the first step towards taking control of our
diamond resources through the establishment of NamDeb. Soon after, beneficiation
took centre stage and 13 new cutting and polishing factories were established.
Now it’s time for a new chapter in the story of Namibia’s diamonds. The Birth
Namibia became an independent Republic on 21 March 1990. of Namib Desert Diamonds - NAMDIA - heralds a new era in the industry. Its a
The spirit of Independence Day is the coming together of testimony of Namibia’s resolve towards greater involvement in the value chain.
Namibians, united in diversity to celebrate independence.
Established by the Government of the Republic of Namibia and trading as a private
Rotating the celebrations across the nation’s fourteen regions company, NAMDIA will trade its allocation of rough diamonds, thereby helping
emphasizes the unity of the Namibian people, while also boost- Namibia determine the value of her diamonds. This will serve as a source of
ing local economies and small businesses. Independence Day additional revenue for our country’s development.
remains a cardinal act of fostering nation building, cohesion
and solidarity. The temptation to dilute its meaning is unwar- Welcome NAMDIA - It’s time...
ranted.
The Presidency would like to assure the nation that cost-sav-
ing measures are being applied to all government expenses.
Costs for the celebrations will be kept at reasonable levels in
line with Government commitment to eliminate wastage.
President Geingob strongly believes in the inviolability of the
Namibian House.
Independence Day signifies the foundation for a peaceful, unit-
ed and solid Namibian House. The President invites Namibians
from all walks of life to the independence celebrations in Tsumeb,
Oshikoto Region on 21 March 2018.

www.namdia.com NAMDIA

8 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 9

When looking at the past year, house prices have in-
creased by a modest 4.0% through that year and whilst
the headline rate is still positive, momentum now looks
weaker due to the downwardly growth rates recorded in
''
the second half of the year. This was triggered by mount-
ing pressure on household incomes, which exerted an
increasing drag on consumer confidence.
– Josephat Nambashu – Analyst at FNB Namibia.
Josephat Nambashu – Analyst at FNB Namibia.
10 Consumer News
Modest house
price growth
of 4% in 2017
FNB Namibia has released the latest housing index, based on
statistics from December 2017. “When looking at the past year,
house prices have increased by a modest 4.0% through that year
and whilst the headline rate is still positive, momentum now
looks weaker due to the downwardly growth rates recorded in the
second half of the year. This was triggered by mounting pressure
on household incomes, which exerted an increasing drag on con-
sumer confidence. The average property price increased to N$1.1
million in December, slightly higher than this time last year,”
states Josephat Nambashu – Analyst at FNB Namibia.
The index further maintains that at the mentioned levels, the
housing market remains resilient, in relation to the weak economic
backdrop, where the economy continued to shed jobs and dispos-
able income remained weak. While price gains are decelerating, the
volumes have accelerated. Josephat: “December is typically a weak
month for home sales, but 2017 December saw all regions register
robust volume growth for the first time in two years. Overall, trans-
FEBRUARY/march 2018
actions were up 16.2%, most likely boosted
by increased supply of new housing stock
at more affordable pricing. The FNB Estate
Agent Survey reveals improved trading activ-
ity levels and rising discounts, even though
distressed sales picked up.”
Expectations for 2018:
How well the housing market performs
in 2018 will be determined by economic
fundamentals. Whilst we expect growth to
lift moderately, job losses to normalise and
interest rates to remain as accommodative
as possible, we are, however, of the opinion
that the market could see stable or moderate
improvement in house price movements
through 2018. Our core view is for house
price to grow by 5% - 6%, with downside
risks in the wake of last year’s recession.
Highlights of the regions:
Central’s average house price increased
by 8.7% through the year to N$1.5 million,
well within the 7% - 10% range that prevailed
throughout the year. In the capital, house
price inflation index was up 7.7%, more
evidence of a weakening property market.
Here, we see either price growth diminishing
or contracting in the upper segments while
the opposite is happening in the low-income
segments as the market’s dynamics shift.
Transactions in the capital were up 10.3%
over the year. We believe, however, that
property price growth still lags disposable
income growth and as such, we expect
prices to weaken during the first half of 2018,
particularly at the higher end of the property
ladder.
Coastal property price growth converged
to 2.9% to set the average house price at
N$1.1 million. This property market follows
the domestic tourism market and as the
tourism season winds down, prices normal-
ise in line with our expectations. According
to the FNB estate agency survey, both buy
to let and foreign buying have tapered, with
both Walvis Bay and Swakopmund property
price growths decelerating to 9.8% and 5.6%,
respectively. Both these two coastal giants
saw volumes rising by more than 30%, on the
back of mass housing and aggressive land
delivery.
House price inflation in the North posted
a lowly 1.0% increase over the year, with the
average price now N$799,000. Ondangwa
FEBRUARY/march 2018
property prices increased by a respecta-
ble 11.9%, while Grootfontein, Oshikuku,
Otjiwarongo and Oshakati property prices
increased by 3% – 7% through 2017. House
prices fell across Katima Mulilo (-18.4%),
Ongwediva (-15.1%) and Rundu (-9.9%) – as
supply increased in these three markets to
the detriment of the average selling price. A
total of N$1.5bn mortgages was extended to
northern towns in 2017, with Tsumeb leading
the pack (N$237m) followed by Ondangwa
(N$234m) and Eenhana (N$227m). These
three towns have muscled their way into the
top six mortgage markets in Namibia.
Like the coastal, southern house price con-
verged to more realistic levels of 5.4% at the
end of the year, speaking to the tumultuous
2017 beset by economic frailties. Mariental,
however, posted the highest price growth
(+29.0%), followed by Keetmanshoop with
2.0% price growth. Volumes were up 7.5% in
the south through December, but still remain
a small base and as such it is greatly advised
to always treat these price movements with
utmost caution as the price movements are
extremely volatile.
In conclusion Josephat said that mod-
erate economic growth was expected in
2018. “However, a forecast of 1.3% real GDP
growth for this year is not any significant
additional support for the housing market.
Therefore, household incomes will remain
under pressure and thus consumer and
business confidence will remain weak. This
will transpire into waning housing demand
in the middle to upper price segments.
From recent price developments, it is clear
that size matters.
Smaller will be better as it has been
towards the end of 2017, as many aging
homeowners downscale and distressed
sales fuel smaller property demand. Hope-
fully mass housing will lift housing supply
to the lower end and help manage segment
price inflation.
Rising housing demand in the lower
price segment will regrettably not offset
the waning demand in the middle to upper
price segments and as such the housing
market as a whole will remain depressed to
an average house price growth rate of about
5.4% in 2018.
Although macro fundamentals suggest
property prices should contract at this stage
of the economic cycle, the sheer size of the
housing backlog, will likely keep overall
property prices in the black.” w
Consumer News
Securing
financing
for SMEs
Finding financing to start their business is the
leading issue most entrepreneurs find them-
selves in, causing a stalemate that prevents them
from seeing their dreams come to fruition.
However, this should not serve as a deterrent
because Small/Medium Enterprises (SME’s) play
a vital role to the socio-economic development
of any community.
“SMEs are one of the driving forces in job
creation and local economic development. They
provide much of the essential goods and ser-
vices for communities especially those who are
disadvantaged. It is therefore imperative that we
find ways to aid young entrepreneurs to finance
their SMEs,” Standard Bank’s Head of Enterprise
Banking, Dennis Isaacs, said this week.
Admittedly, financing for SMEs is challenging
for many financial institutions because the lack
of information which makes assessing and serv-
ing this sector difficult and expensive.
“There are various factors that affect financ-
ing for SMEs, some of these can lead to added
expensive costs for the SME’s, especially when
they have to look at sources from outside the
formal financial sector for funding, thereby hin-
dering the sector’s growth. All hope is not lost as
there are ways to navigate around this to ensure
that you can secure funding for your SME,” he
explained.
Isaacs advised that the rise of alternative, tech-
nology-enabled means of financing, such as new
business models based on advanced data analyt-
ics, supply chain and e-commerce based finance
and other innovations may offer a way out.
He pointed out that innovations in sup-
ply-chain financing and government procure-
ment; the use of technology to reduce risks,
enhance efficiency leading to lower costs;
securitization and other means of obtaining
capital relief for traditional sources of finance;
introducing non-traditional sources of long-term
capital and capacity building for both financiers
and SMEs, are just some of the ways how funding
can be secured.
Additionally, the need to catalyse exchange of
knowledge, expertise and experience from both
the demand and supply sides, creating a shared
approach to common issues is also imperative to
the cause as it will help create scale and momen-
tum for SMEs.
“Thanks to innovations and technological
advancements, there are insurmountable ways
for people to raise funds for their SME’s outside
of the traditional norms we are used to. Crowd-
funding, Bootstrapping, Factoring, are just some
of the ways that people can use to raise funds
but each of them come with their limitations so
you have to choose which best supports your
business,” Isaacs concluded.
11

Africa’s population explosion
is a ticking time bomb
— African Development Bank Governors
Africa is projected to have over
840 million youth by 2050 with
the continent having the youngest
population on earth
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, March 7, 2018/ -- The African Development
Bank (www.AfDB.org) and its East and North African Governors
have stressed the need for urgent measures to match the conti-
nent’s growing population and youth unemployment, which they
likened to a “ticking time bomb.”
The meeting described the continent’s growing young population
as a potential growth engine for the world.
“The good news is that the solution is within our reach and will
require investments,” said Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African
Development Bank.
At the end of a two-day consultation at the headquarters of the
Bank in Abidjan, CÕte d’Ivoire, the Bank and the Governors discussed
strategizes for closing Africa’s $170 billion infrastructure investment
gap.
To bridge the investment gap, ensure inclusive growth, and create
employment for the continent’s population, the meeting endorsed
the African Development Bank-led African Investment Forum and
described it as a timely opportunity to catalyze investments into
projects and attract social impact financing to Africa.
Tanzania’s Minister for Finance and Planning, Isdor Mpango, called
for closer involvement of the private sector in financing development
on the continent.
“The African Development Bank is well positioned to advise and
assist Governments and the private sector to come up with bankable
projects,” Mpango said, calling for direct resources to provide budget
support and investment opportunities.”
Through the African Investment Forum, scheduled for November
12 Consumer News
benefited from investee lutions in 2011 and 2014.
projects He thanked the Bank for
An analysis of the Afri- supporting the country’s
can Development Bank’s macroeconomic stabiliza-
impact from 2010-2017 tion, financial reforms, in-
indicates that 27 million frastructure, and energy
Africans gained access to projects, among others.
new electricity connec- Morocco’s Economy
tions. 899,000 small and Finance Minister,
businesses were provided Mohammed Boussaid,
with financial services. 35 praised the Bank’s
million have benefitted ambition for Africa, and
from improved access to underscored its support
water and sanitation. for energy, agriculture
“With the Bank’s sup- and infrastructure pro-
port, Somalia has evolved jects. He said “a capital
from a failed to a fragile increase today is not a
state,” asserted Somalia’s Finance Minister, Abdirahman Beileh. “The choice, it is a necessity. Today, the leading export sector in Morocco
African Development Bank has been with us throughout. Together we no longer belongs to traditional sectors, such as phosphates, but
can reach the bright light at the end of the tunnel.” to the automotive industry. This generates jobs and adds value for
Algeria’s Finance Minister, Abderahmane Raouia, said "The biggest sustainable and robust growth.”
challenge for Africa today is job creation. It is a stake of stability and a With a substantive capital increase, the African Development will
lever to pull economic growth upwards. We must offer job opportuni- be able to execute its robust pipeline of operations (15bn in 2018
ties for young people to convince them to stay here on the continent."
According to Simon Mizrahi, Director, Delivery, Performance
alone), including infrastructure and regional integration projects. The
prospects for 2018-2020 are bright, with 50.3 million people bene-
Management and Results, the Bank needs to move from billions to fitting from improved access to transport compared to 14 million in
trillions in its funding and leveraging effect. 2017. Also, more than 35 million people are expected to benefit from
7-9, 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa, the Bank and its partners
intend to showcase bankable projects, attract financing, and provide
Egypt’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Mohamed El-Hamzawi, who
represented the Finance Minister, said the country has seen two revo-
new or improved electricity connections, in contrast to 4.4 million
delivered in 2017.
platforms for investing across Africa. The forum will bring together
the African Development Bank and other global multilateral financial
institutions to de-risk investments at scale.
“A uniqueness of the African Investment Forum is that there will be Finance for retail, wholesale
no speeches. The only speeches will be transactions,” said President
and franchises
Adesina.
Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Claver Development Bank of Namibia provides
Gatete said: “The African Development Bank has already discussed a comprehensive range of flexible, tailored
the concept of the African Investment Forum with us. The Rwandan financing products for retailers, wholesalers
Government takes this Forum very seriously.” and franchises.
“Jobs will come from industrialization. The new approach using the
African Investment Forum to de-risk the sector and attract investors is Term loans
the way to go,” said Kiplagat Rotich, Kenyan Finance Minister.
13 per cent of the world’s population is estimated to live in sub-Sa-
Installment sales agreements
haran Africa today. That number is projected to more than double by
2050. Four billion (or 36 per cent of the world’s population) could live
Property development finance
in the region by 2100, according to the UN Population Division. Africa
is projected to have over 840 million youth by 2050 with the continent
having the youngest population on earth. Contract (tender) based finance
According to Adesina, “We have 12 years left to the SDGs. It is an
alarm bell because if Africa does not achieve the SDGs, the world Performance guarantees (franchises)
won’t achieve them. The African Development Bank is accelerating
development across Africa through the High 5s. We are deepening our Visit www.dbn.com.na or call 061 290 8000 for more
reforms. We deepened our disbursements to the highest levels ever information. We’re waiting to hear from you.
last year and we are leveraging more resources for Africa.”
Tunisia’s Finance Minister Zied Ladhari recalled how the Bank’s
11-year temporary relocation to his country helped strengthen the
bonds between them. “We share the Bank’s vision. Africa is the conti-
nent of the future. This is a great Africa moment with the Bank at the
centre. Unleashing the potential of African economies is a task which
the Bank must accomplish.”
As part of the Bank’s High 5 agenda, 13 million African women Expect more.
have benefitted from new electricity connections and 23 million from
improvements in agriculture. Also, 10 million African women have
FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 13
Bank moving you forward with PayPulse
Further cementing its position as Namibia’s leading
innovative Bank, Standard Bank has launched its
ble to any customer in the country. In this day and age
were customers are in need of more convenient ways
It’s your right Republic of Namibia

to be paid right
unique cardless transactional application, PayPulse. to pay their bills, without queuing up in long lines,
Ministry of Labour, Industrial
The application which was officially launched on
early March, allows for the customers to have a virtual
customers have now been given an easy option to do
so from the comfort of their mobile devices.
Social Security Commission Relations and Employment
Creation
wallet to pay for bills and services, send or withdraw “PayPulse is uniquely Namibian in the sense that provides bursaries & loans worth
money, to name a few.
The launch was attended by various movers and
we understand that most Namibians are multi-banked
and we have devised it (the application) to address
over 3-million Namibia Dollars
THE MINIMUM WAGE
shakers in Windhoek who were all eager to try out this, while also being a frictionless/seamless method FOR A DOMESTIC WORKER
the revolutionary applications which is guaranteed to of payment that doesn’t require having a bank card,”
The Social Security Commission through its Development Fund disbursed aimed at realizing poverty reduction,SHOULD BE pro-poor economic growth and
and ensure
change the way Namibians make cardless transactions. she said. bursaries and study loans to deserving beneficiaries from socially disadvantaged sustainable livelihoods”, said Nghimtina.
Speaking at the event, Standard Bank’s Head of With PayPulse you can instantly cash out your backgrounds. All 29 bursaries and 2 loans were awarded for studies in various N$1502.05 PER MONTH,
Digital Channels, Juanita Lamprecht, explained that the money at the till of any prominent grocery stores like fields of study. This brings the total number of students assisted by the SSC DF
over the past nine years to 335.
N$346.89 PER WEEK,
The Minister further commended the Social Security Commission for having
Juanita Lamprecht established a fund that provides funding in a manner that is responsive to the
application is the first of its kind that doesn’t require Woermann Brock, Shoprite Checkers, Pick n Pay, OK N$69.37 PER DAY,
ever challenging problem of unemployment and other poverty related issues
users to be banked with Standard Bank and users can and U-Save. Apart from cashing out and sending Blue At the hand-over ceremony, SSC Executive Officer, Milka Mungunda has
reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to the education enterprise, and
N$8.67 PER HOUR 
facing many disadvantaged communities.
link up to three different cards from three different banks. It is fast, Vouchers, it also allows for customers to send money to any mobile
the intent to remain in alignment with the government’s priorities. “The social
secure and easy to use. number in Namibia even if they don’t have a PayPulse account, top To the 2017-recipients, Hon. Nghimtina had this to say: Congratulations for
protection landscape in Namibia is still unacceptably uneven. And this we do AND N$43.35 PER DAY
being the fortunate ones of the year! I have no doubt that the bursaries and
“PayPulse is unique and revolutionary compared to what’s cur- up on electricity and airtime, and pay for bills such as your DStv/ regret wholeheartedly as it affects the cost and capacity of delivering social
study loans will enable FOR
youPART-TIME
to pursue DOMESTIC
your studiesWORKERS
without financial worries.
rently in the market in that the application allows it’s users to load GOtv accounts. You can also use it to pay for your meal at various security products and services. It’s with this in mind that the SSC has decided
to take a leading role in directing this crucial dialogue to the consolidation of the WHOtheWORK
Indeed, you must appreciate FIVE
fortunate HOURS
situation OR LESS
in which you find yourselves
up to three banking cards at a time. So this means that it caters for restaurants. and I urge you to take your
A DAY OTHER THAN SUNDAY OR responsibility as
studies seriously. It is now your
current fragmented social security schemes into a rather robust, comprehensive
everybody and not just Standard Bank clients. What’s also special “The PayPulse banking application is really about having a fast, and coherent national scheme under the commission”, Mungunda said. beneficiaries to make optimal use of this rare opportunity and ensure that you
HOLIDAYS.
do exceptionally well in your studies and acquire the relevant skills that will help
about it is that Standard Bank’s Blue Wallet capability has also been secure and easy way for customers to make payments from the At the same occasion, Honourable Errki Nghimtina, Minister of Labour, Industrial
Relations and Employment, said that unemployment remains an undeclared the nation achieve its economic independence”.
incorporated into the new App which enables customers to also pay comfort of their mobile device. Simply download from it App Store,
national emergency. “It is probably also one of the defining challenges of the
via a QR code through a scan and pay method,” she explained. follow the easy steps to register and once that is done you are ready current millennium and the SSC has a duty to ensure that social security is The Minister also appealed to other institutions to emulate the noble example
In essence, PayPulse enables the Blue Wallet services to be availa- to make payments,” she concluded. accepted and entrenched as a permanent ingredient in government’s strategies
The minimum
set by the SSC to invest more in education and human capital development.
overtime for a domestic
worker should be:
N$13 per hour, N$17.34 per
hour for work on Sunday and
public holidays and
...and it’s your N$86.70 per day for part-time
responsibility to domestic workers who
make sure you work for less than five
are registered hours or less.
with the  Social
Creating Peace of Mind Security
through facilitating quality Commission.
products and services For further information on
domestic workers remuneration, For Social Security Commission
The NSI strives to facilitate the development of please contact: registration, please contact:
national standards for application in business,
government and consumer protection and provide Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Social Security Commission
conformity assessment services to enable industry Employment Creation For more information:
market access. Add: 32 Mercedes Street, Khomasdal Call: +264 (0) 61 280 7085
From left to right is Ms. Unomengi Kauapirura (SSC Manager: Communications & Marketing), Mr. Marthinuz Fabianus (SSC Board’s Commissioner), Ms. Milka
Tel: 061-2066111
Mungunda or of
(SSC Executive Officer), Mr. Bro-Mathew Shinguadja (Permanent Secretary visit at: www-ssc.org.na
Ministry or
of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation) Ms.
This Independence Day we pay tribute to our Nambata Angula (SSC General Manager: Business Development).
SMS-line: 66111 Visit our offices at: Cnr A. Kloppers & J Haupt Street,
stakeholders who contribute to the growth of this
meaningful institution towards industrialisation. Website: www.mol.gov.na Khomasdal, Windhoek
Email: Domestic.Workers@mol.gov.na
Happy 28th Independence Day Namibia!

Mission: To improve the welfare of our members and beneficiaries by

Mission: To improve the welfare of our members and beneficiaries by providing comprehensive social protection.
NSI_Namibia providing comprehensive social protection.
www.nsi.com.na Vision: To be the preferred provider of comprehensive social protection in Namibia.

Vision: To be the provider of comprehensive social protection in Namibia.

For more informamtil: Call: +264 (0) 61 280 7085 or visit at: www.ssc.org.na or
Visit our offices at: Cnr A. Kloppers & JHaupt Street, Khomasdal, Windhoek.

14 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 15


Bank Windhoek’s Emerging Small and Medium-sized
Enterprises (ESME) Finance Branch Manager, Mbo
Luvindao.
Bank Windhoek
invites entrepreneurs
Economic indicators are all pointing to a challenging year
ahead in terms of the Namibian economy. Nevertheless, there
is a light at the end of the tunnel. That light is entrepreneur-
ship.
The challenges currently being faced by the Namibian economy
“The challenges currently being faced by the Namibian econ-
''
may cause many to react with uncertainty. Entrepreneurs howev-
omy may cause many to react with uncertainty. Entrepreneurs
er, are those people who are skilled at adapting and being resil-
however, are those people who are skilled at adapting and being
ient. It is especially during times such as these that entrepreneurs
resilient. It is especially during times such as these that entre-
should step forward with new, different and innovative ideas.
preneurs should step forward with new, different and innovative
– Mbo Luvindao.
ideas. Regardless of the current challenges, entrepreneurs with
that mind-set will be successful and will position their businesses
optimally for when our economy recovers. This attitude takes
a lot of character,” said Bank Windhoek’s Emerging Small and
Medium-sized Enterprises (ESME) Finance Branch Manager, Mbo
Luvindao.
Entrepreneurship requires initiative and taking risks, but often,
the end of the journey, yields high reward. Bank Windhoek’s
ESME Finance Branch believes that there are Namibians who are
willing to step up and be counted as contributors to the country’s
economic growth. The Bank is calling on aspiring and established
entrepreneurs to approach the ESME department with their busi-
ness plans and request for funding to either start their businesses
or expand or diversify their existing business portfolios.
The process of proposal evaluation and SME loan applications
is quick and service delivery is of the highest standard at Bank
Windhoek’s ESME Finance Branch. “All proposals received are
assessed for their financial viability based on responsible lending
principles. We do not only provide loans, but also business men-
torship to selected Bank Windhoek SME loan applicants to ensure
that they acquire the necessary skills and support to run their
business successfully,” said Luvindao.
“Bank Windhoek is committed to being a catalyst of sustainable
opportunities for the growth of Namibia’s economy, especially
amongst women and the youth with viable business ideas. The
vision of Bank Windhoek’s ESME Finance Branch is to see an
increasing number of emerging, small and medium enterprises
growing into sustainable businesses, creating new wealth and
new opportunities that benefit the Namibian economy,” said
Luvindao.
Bank Windhoek’s ESME Finance Branch is located in Windhoek
and in Oshakati. Entrepreneurs can also approach their near-
est Bank Windhoek Branch or Agency for assistance. For more
information, contact Bank Windhoek ESME Finance Branch in
Windhoek at Tel: (061) 299 0602, Oshakati at Tel: (065) 22 99 56/57
or visit any Bank Windhoek Branch or Agency.
16 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018
At a recent Open Media Day, Agribank CEO, Sakaria Nghikembua
discussed the vision and mission of the bank and specifically referred
to the conventional loans to commercial farmers and the new no-col-
lateral loans made available to communal farmers
Bank lends against conventional collateral:
• Fixed property in proclaimed towns
• Monetary investments that must be ceded
• Irrespective of nature of loan
Implication – borrower must:
• Be purchasing commercial farmland
• Have fixed property in proclaimed town
• Have significant savings/investments
• Thus many communal farmers are excluded
No collateral loan product …
Strategically imperative for Bank to be inclusive, because this:
Contributes to household-level food security
Sets stage for graduation into commercial farming
Contributes to GDP and economic transformation
Thus conceptualised two types of no-collateral products:
• Salary-backed no-collateral product - launched April 2017
• Loan guarantee fund-backed (ERFP) no-collateral loan product
– to be launched1H2018
Bank of Namibia reiterates its position on cryptocurrencies
1. The Bank of Namibia has taken note of the rising interest in
cryptocurrencies as witnessed of late in public engagements on
the matter. The heightened interest has also been evident in the
increasing number of media enquiries which the Bank has received
in this regard.
2. In order to provide clarity on the Bank’s position, the Bank
wishes to reiterate that it does not recognise cryptocurrencies as
legal tender in Namibia.
As such, cryptocurrencies are therefore not considered as an
authorised foreign currency and thus the Namibia Dollar is not
exchangeable for it.
3. The market prices of cryptocurrencies are highly volatile,
fluctuate significantly on a daily basis and are unstable with no
underlying substantive value.
Cryptocurrencies therefore do not meet the minimum standards
of any credible currency.
FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News
Agribank CEO, Sakaria Nghikembua
Agribank
explains
loans
Purpose of the loan …
To assist communal farmers to:
• Purchase seasonal inputs (fertilisers, seeds, fuel and other
working capital for
• land preparations, tillage and ploughing costs)
• Purchase livestock (large and/or small, including draught
animals)
• Finance land development (fencing, de-stumping)
• Purchase agricultural machinery and implements (tractors,
rippers, threshers, hammer mills)
• Finance water infrastructure installation and/or repairs for
farming purposes
• Purchase farm vehicles (e.g. vans/bakkies, trailers, carts, etc.)
Loan features ...
• Loan Size : N$5 000 – N$500 000 per loan client @ 8.5% p.a.
• Loan Term: : 12-54 months, depending on loan type
• Security: : No collateral - applicant must be employed withreg-
ular monthly salary
• Repayment/Collection : No collateral - applicant must be em-
ployed with regular monthly salary
Limited debit order: In between-job
Contribution required: 10% deposit required on vehicle loans
Insurance :: Short-term/Credit Life Insurance
Disbursement: : Directly to supplier of goods/ services
4. In addition, because of the unregulated nature of cryptocurren-
cies, individuals that engage in such trading would be doing so at
their own risk, and as a result, expose themselves to financial losses
due to the lack of regulatory protection.
5. Equally, the Bank continues to be concerned with potential
abuses, including money laundering and associated risks which
have been highlighted as major threats associated with cryptocur-
rencies internationally.
6. The Bank continues to monitor the developments around cryp-
tocurrencies and its impact on the functions of the Bank.
7. Finally, the Bank will continue to educate the public on its
position and particularly on the risks associated with cryptocurren-
cies and therefore calls on the Namibian public to be cautious when
presented with information on cryptocurrencies.
8. The position paper is available at https://www.bon.com.
na/…/…/Publications/Position-Papers.asgx
17
 Review of import conditions for ready-to-eat foods from SA

OUTBREAK 0F LISTERIOSIS
CAUSED BY LISTERIA
MONOCYTOGENES
Following the admittance of a 41-year-old male to a Windhoek and stored safely away from raw food.
hospital after he contracted listeriosis, the Ministry of Agriculture, Drinking raw (unpasteurised) milk or eating foods that contain un-
Water and Forestry has set up guidelines and recoomendations for pasteurised milk should be avoided.
the avoidance of the infections: Ready to eat meat is any meat or meat products considered ready to
eat and do not require additional cooking to be safely consumed.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) would like to Importers are urged to contact the Veterinary Import/ Export Office
inform importers and the Namibian public about the review of import for further information on the review of import conditions.
and in transit of ready-to—eat foods such as polonies, russians, frank- Dr. A Musilika-Shilongo is available at telephone: 061 2087505 or
furters, viennas, all types of hams and salamis from South Africa due email: Albertina.shilongo@mawf.gov.na
to the outbreak of listeriosis caused by Listeria monocytogenes. This
review is issued in terms of Section 11(1) of theAnimal Health Act, 2011
(Act No.1 of 2011).
The new import requirements prohibit the following ready—to—eat
foods or processed meat products from being imported into Namibia
or in transit:
• All products such as polonies, smoked russians and other
russians, viennas, sausages, frankfurters, all types of hams
and salamis produced under the following brands: Enterprise,
Renown, Bokkie, Mielikip and Lifestyle produced by Enterprise
Polokwane (ZA 33), Enterprise Foods Germiston (ZA 126)
• All ready to eat meat products from Rain Bow Chicken (RCL)
Foods (ZA 32).

Kindly note that canned meat products that were produced before
the ban on 04 March 2018 are excluded on condition that the hygiene
management system implemented provides guarantees to the official
certifying South African veterinarian that the canned meat products are
sterilised at the appropriate temperatures, not contaminated on the
surface and are not implicated in the Listeria outbreak.
It should be noted that South Africa has suspended export of pro-
cessed meat from the three establishments to all its trading partners
until the establishments have fully implemented corrective actions
that are audited by the regulatory authorities. Likewise Namibia has
stopped the importation of processed products such as polonies,
smoked russians and other russians, viennas, sausages, frankfurters, all
types of hams and salamis from these three establishments.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) and Ministry of Health
and Social Services will be implementing random sampling and testing
of imported and locally produced ready-to-eat foods for all microbes
including Listeria monocytogenes bacterium.
Listeriosis food poisoning is caused by eating foods contaminated
with Listeria monocytogenes bacterium. The disease can be more
severe in pregnant women, young children and the elderly as well as
other immune compromised persons.
The symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, sometimes
nausea or diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and
convulsions. The disease is treatable thus the public should visit health
facilities for medical assistance when experiencing some or all the
symptoms aforementioned.
Listeriosis can be prevented by practising safe food handling prac-
tices such as washing hands before and after handling food, washing
hands after using the bathroom or toilet. Food must be cooked well

18 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 19

 Independence celebrations
hit Tsumeb
Independence fever broke out in Tsumeb on Wednesday when
throngs of people quickly filled the stands of the Oscar Norich Stai-
um in eager anticipation of the entertainment that was about to
begin and the 28th Independence celebrations and the president’ s
independence speech.
The event is attended by the cabinet ministers, members of the
diplomatic corps, with Vice president Nangolo Mbumba, the Deputy
Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation,
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Chief Justice Peter Shivute, amongst
others.
The event was also graced by Founding President Sam Nujoma,
former president Hifikepunye Pohamba and Madam Pohamba, former
Vice President Nickey Iyambo. The guest of honour was, obviously
president Hage Geingob and the First lady, Monica Geingos.
A military pade, consisting of the Namibian Army, Namibian Air Force
and the Namibian Navy marched onto the filed and they were inspect-
ed by president Geingob. After the inspection, the combined forces
executed a marc-past and then dispersed.
During his speech, president Geingob made it clear that “What binds
us here in this town, a melting pot of cultures, sitting at the intersection
of our liberation struggle, is our love for Namibia. It is a fitting geogra-
phy to give credence to the theme of our 28 th Independence Anniver-
sary, “United we stand, for the love of Namibia.”
He went on to stress that on Independence Day “each and every
20 Consumer News
Namibian should partake in the activities, pause and reflect about the
heroic efforts of our brave sons and daughters. Namibians, hold-
ing hands broke collectively the shackles of physical, political, and
economic enslavement and opening the doors to our freedom and a
future of possibilities”.
He said that there were no textbooks to prepare them for accom-
plishing the task of development, and shared prosperity after inde-
pendence. But their conscience and actions animated the conviction
that one needed to build a new Namibia. A Namibia in which the chains
of the injustices of the past would be broken and the protection of
each citizen the reason why a Government is elected became a reality.
They wanted a Namibia in which government policies set the nation
on course towards nation building, social progression and economic
advancement. “ We are building that Namibia”, he stated.
He concluded by saying: ´ Every Namibian will have to actively par-
ticipate in bringing about genuine change and structural transforma-
tion within our economy. Genuine change would require that we enter
into a contract of rights and responsibilities.
It would require unified efforts and commitment spurred on by
patriotism. We must stand together, united for the love of Namibia.
Finger-pointing, playing the blame game or passing the buck should be
avoided.
Let us therefore hold hands and place national interest and the pur-
suit of shared prosperity above self-interest.”
FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 21

The global consumer movement will once again unite for a day of
action on 15 March 2018. The international theme for World Con-
sumer Rights Day (WCRD) is ‘Making digital marketplaces fairer’.
Building on the success of the 2017 #BetterDigitalWorld campaign,
the 2018 campaign will aim to promote digital marketplaces that are
more accessible, safer and fairer for consumers across the globe.
E-commerce, or buying products and services online, has trans-
formed the way we consume.
Consumers with a connected device and a payment method can
buy anything from music to take-away; book transport and accommo-
dation; or buy tickets to events. This new way to trade has opened up
a vast array of choice for consumers and enhanced convenience on a
scale never seen before.
However, along with benefits, e-commerce raises key issues for con-
sumers such as: access to fair and secure markets, being sure there is
redress when things go wrong, and being exposed to scams and fraud.
Because of this, the consumer movement must work to ensure that
digital marketplaces are
fairer for everyone.
Consumer Activism in Namibia
The Namibia Consumer Protection Group was founded in 2009 to
unify and mobilize consumers through the identification of visible and
clear targets in the community, and propose specific changes for the
benefit of the consumers.
This year, in addition to supporting the theme of “Making digital
marketplaces fairer”, the NCPG also provides feedback on the success
and disappointments in the Namibian consumer environment.
Appointment of Consumer Representative to NSI
The Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and SME Development has
appointed the Director of NCPG, Mr Milton Louw to the Namibia Stand-
ards Council, the governing council of the Namibia Standards Institute.
Through this representation, consumers participate in improving
quality, industrial
efficiency, productivity and promotion of trade to derive optimum
benefits for Namibia and its consumers.
Consumer Protection Act
The delay in the submission of the Consumer Protection Bill to Par-
22 Consumer News
15 March 2018
liament is very disappointing. The various stages and drafts that have
been part of the process have been coming along since before2010,
when H.E. Dr. Hage Geingob (then Minister of Trade & Industry) prom-
ised in a speech read on
his behalf that the Consumer Protection Act will be submitted to Par-
liament within one year. The NCPG hopes that in this “year of reckon-
ing”, the newly appointed Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and SME
Development, Hon. Tjekero Tweya, will ensure that his staff brings this
promise to reality.
Housing and Estate Agents Within this Ministry, it must be noted with
disappointment also at the state of the Namibian Estate Agents Board
(NEAB) which is without a Board for a lengthy period of time. They are
the official regulating authority and every estate agent must be regis-
tered with it. The primary function of the Board is to protect the public
interest (consumers) in their dealings with agents while maintaining
and promoting the integrity of estate agents. Obviously, without a
Board in place, consumers are not getting the protection they deserve
under the law.
Number Portability - change your provider not your number
The Communications Regulation Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has
once again brought hope that the issue of Number Portability will be
addressed within the next 12 months. According to the Communica-
tions Act (Act No. 8 of 2009) “number portability” means the ability of
users of
telecommunications services to retain, at the same location, existing
telecommunications numbers without impairment of quality, reliability
or convenience when switching from one carrier to another.
Further according to Section 81 (3) “The numbering plan must re-
quire mobile number portability by all technology and service neutral
licensees within two years from the date of commencement of this Act.”
The Media Statement on National Numbering Plan and Number
Portability released on 22 February 2018 states: “The implementation
of number portability will commence within 12 months from the final
publication of the proposed regulations.”
The NCPG hopes that the process, which is 7 years overdue, is
eventually implemented and “provides for an array of benefits such as
to allow consumers with the right to retain their telephone numbers
FEBRUARY/march 2018
DIPLOMAT OF THE
YEAR AWARD –
SANGO CONFERENCE,
Windsor Markus,
CRESTA LODGE,
Head: Treasury Sales,
16 MARCH 2018 –
at Bank Windhoek.
HARARE, ZIMBABWE
Namibian
Ambassador, H.E.
Balbina Daes Pienaar
Bank Windhoek to won Diplomat of
the year Award
trade Chinese Yuan from Africa and First
Runner Up Diplomat
Bank Windhoek is proud to announce that commencing
Monday, 19 February 2018, all its branches countrywide
of the Year
will start buying and selling Chinese yuan (CNY) notes.
Yuan notes will be traded in addition to the current range
of foreign currency notes which are exchanged at 0%
commission.
Bank Windhoek will accept denominations of 10, 20, 50
and 100 CNY at its branches.
When travelling overseas it is necessary to carry cash for
incidentals like taxi fares, tips or shopping at local street
markets. “Bank Windhoek’s business clients also have one
less thing to worry about by buying their foreign notes at 0%
commission,” said Windsor Markus, Head: Treasury Sales,
at Bank Windhoek. “They can rather focus on their business
and not have to shop around for the lowest charges when
banking their foreign exchange,” he added.
Travelers can purchase their foreign exchange up to 60
days prior to departure.
“Our team of forex experts will be ready to advise you on
all foreign exchange related matters and ensure you receive
the best exchange rates possible, whether buying or selling,”
Markus concluded.
(fixed and mobile) when changing service providers, support economic have a bearing on collection of debts are reasonable, fair and equitable.
growth, encourage The charges by the debt collectors are not exempt from the Magistrate
CRAN Protects Consumers from Being Charged High Collection Court Rules.
Fees for Outstanding Debts (by MTC) stated by the CEO, Mr. Festus K. Aggrieved and affected consumers are encouraged to manage their
Mbandeka in the statement. cases directly with MTC. If such consumers feel their cases have not
CRAN Protects Consumers from Being Charged High Collection Fees been addressed within 14 days from the date in which it was formally
for Outstanding Debts (by MTC) CRAN must be applauded for the deci- reported to MTC, then they should follow CRAN’s consumer complaint
sion on a consumer complaint about the 18% collection commission procedures.
that Mobile telecommunications Limited (“MTC”) charges on outstand- This means that all consumers who have been charged the amount
ing debts. (The complaint was received in 2013.) of 18% on outstanding debts can now insist on being refunded these
The following is taken directly from the Media Statement published fees. We applaud the decision by CRAN and hope that MTC will put in
on 16 February 2018: place a method that will return these unfairly charged fees – and the
MTC’s Subscriber Agreement states that if the subscriber breaches interest they (MTC) might have received on these monies.
the contract, MTC shall be entitled to recover all legal and other costs Conclusion
which shall include 18% collection commission that may be legally The Namibia Consumer Protection Group (NCPG) has grown to 1,481
recovered from the subscriber by MTC.The Authority concluded and members as of 08 March 2018.
resolved as follows: The group started in 2009 and we have been able to ensure con-
1. MTC may not charge consumers a collection commission of 18% sumers issues are raised and shared amongst the people of Namibia.
on any debts emanating from service level agreements for the provi- We will continue to be a Namibian organisation that campaigns for
sion of telecommunication services; customer rights and focuses on illegal and unethical behaviour by
2. All debts arising from subscriber agreements between consumers Namibian companies.
and MTC are to be charged a collection commission of 10% only in line To join the Namibia Consumer Protection Group please visit our
with the Magistrate’s Court Rule; and community page on Facebook.
3. The Magistrate Court Rules are aimed at ensuring that tariffs that https:/www.facebook.com/groups/namibiaconsumer
FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 23
 Inflation lower
The All Items Index for February 2018 was estimated at 130.7 compared
to 126.3 registered in February 2017, an increase of 4.4 index points. The
annual inflation rate for the month of February 2018 decelerated to 3.5
percent down from 7.8 percent recorded in February of the preceding
year, a slowdown of 4.3 percentage points. The February 2018 annual in-
flation rate recorded a notable slowdown in the price levels of Food and
AB INBEV NAMIBIA
WINS PRESTIGIOUS BREWERY AWARDS
AB InBev Namibia, one of the youngest breweries in the global AB
InBev network and the smallest under the brand in Africa, was hon-
oured to win a top 3 placing for both the Best Beer in Africa award,
and for the Engagement Leadership awards for AB InBev Supply
2017 held on February 9 th in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
In addition, the brewery received a third award for having the
best Quality Culture along with the other 4 breweries within the
Southern African region at the Quality Culture awards in Johannes-
burg on 16 February 2018.
AB InBev brewery located in Okahandja was recognised for
brewing the best Carling Black Label in Africa in 2017 and for having
good engagement within the organisation in the first year that the
awards were presented. These are significant achievements for AB
InBev Namibia which has only been around for four years and was
measured against much larger breweries, some over 100 years in
operation.
AB InBev’s culture is built on ten principles, all of which are
designed to foster a healthy work environment, a vision driven and
empowered workforce, satisfied consumers and a better world. All
the people at the Okahandja brewery have taken ownership of the
company and believe in leading by example and never being com-
pletely satisfied with their results, no matter how good, which keeps
them reaching for greater heights.
24 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News
non-alcoholic beverages from 11.3 percent to 2.0 percent, Communica-
tions from 6.0 percent to -0.1 percent, Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas
and Other fuels from 9.6 percent to 3.2 percent, Furnishings, Household
Equipment and Routine maintenance of the house from 8.5 percent to
0.1 percent. On a monthly basis, the inflation rate slowed to 0.1 percent
as compared to 1.6 percent registered in the previous month.
It is this drive and commitment that has earned the brewery the
awards received. AB InBev Africa grants eight awards to breweries
in the global conglomerate’s Africa Zone annually, all spread across
different categories under their Supply umbrella.
The categories include Safety, Environment, Quality, Leadership
Engagement, and Taste and Best Brewery in Africa.
“All three awards are a testament to the people of the brewery, all
of whom are a great example of our second principle: our great-
est strength is our people. Notwithstanding having received the
awards, our desire now is to live up to our fourth principle: we are
never completely satisfied with our results which are the fuel of our
company. Focus and zero complacency ensure lasting competitive
advantage. We are happy to have been recognized for our efforts
over the past year but we wish to improve upon them and show
Africa and the world that we can do more, and that we can do even
better” Bogart Butler, Plant Manager AB InBev Brewery, Okahandja.
AB InBev, the largest brewer in the world, has operations in over 50
countries and more than 500 beer brands sold in over 150 countries.
The company is committed to driving growth that leads to better
living for more people in more places through addressing rele-
vant issues and working with local communities, NGOs, suppliers,
governments, customers and consumers to create value for all. AB
InBev Namibia is a proud member of this entity.
25

From sedan vehicles to shuttle-busses, LEFA aims to increase the number of registered
drivers and vehicles to 50 over the next month from its current eleven.
Cab App service ‘lefa’
is officially launchedly launched
In response to the national concern of the alarming rate
of road accidents, and fatalities on Namibian roads, Cab
App service, LEFA – proudly supported and powered by
Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) – a subsidiary of the
Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group was officially launched on
Tuesday, 20 February 2018.
“Road fatalities in Namibia is a national concern and
touches each and every one of us. Sadly, drunk-driving is
one of the major causes of road accidents in the country,”
said founder of ‘LEFA’, Melkisedek Shivute Ausiku, affec-
tionately known as “Melkies” at the official launch. He add-
ed that the birth of this cab service was born from a place
of concern and care for his fellow Namibian people, as
well as for the future of the country. Ausiku: “With so many
people dying on our roads, this greatly affects the growth
of our country and economy. But even more so, it affects
and greatly impacts the lives of so many people who lose
a loved one. The LEFA Cab App is solely brought to life as
contribution to curbing this unfortunate reality. The word
“LEFA” is derived from the Oshiwambo word for lift. LEFA
was inspired by my passion to solve problems such as the
bad habit of driving under the influence of alcohol. It is my
wish that patriots who engage in social gatherings where
the consumption of alcohol is imminent should make use
of a convenient service such as LEFA, instead of driving
under the influence of alcohol.”
Speaking at the launch, NBL Managing Director, Wessie
van der Westhuizen emphasized on how LEFA speaks
directly to NBL’s Stay Cool, Enjoy Responsibility’ cam-
paign. Van der Westhuizen: “All this is done with the aim of
addressing this national catastrophe that begs a change of
mind-set, behaviour and attitude of motorists and other
road-users to complement the great infrastructure such
as our roads. Perhaps it is the fact that we seemingly have
too many vehicles on our road, especially in a relatively
26 Consumer News
small city like Windhoek where accidents
happen on a daily basis. It is my hope
therefore that LEFA would become every
bit as much a part of your daily routine
as a morning cup of coffee or a glance at
your Facebook/Twitter or Instagram feeds.
I believe the burst of LEFA onto the trans-
portation scene brings with it incredible
opportunities and efficiencies. NBL is
proud to be associated with this venture
and we extend our heartfelt congratula-
tions on the launch of LEFA and a very
successful partnership! We look forward
to the positive difference LEFA will make
in the lives of residents of the Windhoek
city and beyond, and we welcome any
constructive feedback to enable LEFA to
become the trusted and successful brand
LEFA founder, Melkisedek
Shivute Ausiku (left) and NBL
Managing Director, Wessie
van der Westhuizen at the
official launch of LEFA – A
Cab App service in response
to the national concern of
the alarming rate of road
accidents, and fatalities on
Namibian roads, and in the
city.
FEBRUARY/march 2018
''
All this is done with the aim of addressing this national catastrophe that begs
a change of mind-set, behaviour and attitude of motorists and other road-us-
ers to complement the great infrastructure such as our roads.
The
– Wessie van der Westhuizen word
“LEFA” is
derived from the
Oshiwambo
word for
With so many people dying on our roads,
this greatly affects the growth of our lift.
country and economy. But even more so,
it affects and greatly impacts the lives of
''
so many people who lose a loved one. The
LEFA Cab App is solely brought to life as
contribution to curbing this unfortunate
reality.
– Melkisedek Shivute Ausiku
NBL Managing Director, Wessie van
der Westhuizen (left) listening to LEFA
founder, Melkisedek Shivute Ausiku
as he explains how the LEFA Cap
App service works.
it is destined to be.”
LEFA currently has 11 drivers and accord-
ing to Melkies aim to have at least 50 drivers
over the next month. The App is officially
available for download and ready for service.
The App is only effective in Windhoek at the
moment, while according to Melkies plans
are underway, with hopes and endeavours
that soon the service will be spread to other
towns in the country. Melkies: “A fee to ensure
your safety and that of others, is better than
ending up behind bars, or in a hospital bed,
or in a grave. LEFA could play such a signifi-
cant role in curbing drunk-driving if we all just
embrace this service available for the better.
Our slogan is punctual, safe and reliable, and NBL Managing Director, Wessie van der Westhuizen and LEFA founder,
we intend to be committed as best we can, on Melkisedek Shivute Ausiku (centre) with some of the registered drivers of LEFA
this journey of contributing to safer roads in – a Cap App service in response to the national concern of the alarming rate of
the city, and ultimately in Namibia.” road accidents, and fatalities on Namibian roads.
FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 27
 Namibia Institute of Pathology Limited

Happy
Independence
Day
Political independence we have attained
28 years ago. Economic independence
and prosperity rely on a healthy and
productive nation. The latter hinges on
a well-developed health system of which
NIP has been a critical player.

Celebrating 28 years
of Namibian Brilliance
Our mandate of sorting, valuing and marketing Namibian diamonds
is crucial to the development of Namibia towards attaining Vision 2030.
On this occasion of Namibia’s 28th birthday we re-affirm our commitment Our national presence speaks volumes of our commitment to provide the
to get the best out of every carat we sort and value. foundation of quality healthcare solutions to our people.
Happy 28th Independence Day

Email: info@nip.com.na | www.nip.com.na

28 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 29

 The editor and staff of
the Consumer Magazine
wish all its readers and
the people of Namibia
much joy and happiness
on the 28th Independence
anniversary, We wish
all happiness, continued
success and prosperity.
WEATHERMEN & CO

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

Don’t Drink and Drive.

30 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018 FEBRUARY/march 2018 Consumer News 31

32 Consumer News FEBRUARY/march 2018