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NDF cyberattack raises national security concerns

Cybersecurity expert Paulinus Sheehama says the reported ransomware attack targeting the Namibia Defence Force raises serious national security concerns. He says authorities must establish what information was accessed and whether attackers still have access to affected systems.

India sees Brics opportunities for Namibia

India’s high commissioner to Namibia, Rahul Shrivastava, says Brics cooperation could help Namibia add value to its minerals and create skilled local jobs. He also highlights opportunities in digital payments, renewable energy and climate-resilient agriculture.

Maimane calls for policing reforms amid discovery of nine women’s bodies in Gauteng

Build One South Africa leader Mmusi Maimane is calling for urgent reforms to South Africa’s policing and criminal justice systems following the discovery of nine women’s bodies in Ekurhuleni in the Gauteng province since July. The South African police have confirmed the discoveries, but say investigations are continuing, and have cautioned against speculation that a serial killer is responsible. Maimane says the developments highlight broader problems within South Africa’s policing system, including a shortage of detectives, limited local investigative capacity and weaknesses in intelligence gathering. He is calling for increased resources for vulnerable police stations, greater municipal policing capacity and a stronger focus on securing convictions for serious crimes. Maimane also urged men and women in Ekurhuleni east of Johannesburg to stand together against gender-based violence and criminality. “We cannot just talk. We have to act,” Maimane says.

Eagles target four wins in USA as cricket World Cup qualification race intensifies

The FNB Namibia Eagles are turning their attention to the United States, where they will continue their Cricket World Cup League 2 campaign with crucial qualification points at stake. The Eagles head into the tour after losing all three one-day international matches against South Africa, but head coach Craig Williams says the series provided valuable lessons, particularly for Namibia's younger players. Namibia will play two matches against the USA and two against the United Arab Emirates, with Williams saying the team's objective is clear — to win all four matches and strengthen their position in the top-four qualification race. Williams says the South Africa series also exposed technical areas the team needs to improve as it aims to compete at the highest level.

No taxi fare hike planned as rising transport costs squeeze operators

Transport operators are feeling the pressure of rising fuel and operating costs, following a sharp increase in transport inflation. According to recent figures highlighted, transport inflation rose from 9.3 percent in July to 13.2 percent in August, with higher fuel prices contributing to the increase. Namibia Bus and Taxi Association secretary general Penda Nakathingo says operators are struggling to make a sustainable living at the current taxi fare if 15 dollars, which was increased from 13 dollars in May. However, Nakathingo says Nabta is not currently seeking another fare increase, citing the financial pressure already faced by commuters. He says the association instead wants authorities to crack down on operators who carry passengers without the required permits, arguing that they are putting additional pressure on legally operating bus and taxi businesses.

Ekurhuleni women’s safety fears grow as ninth woman’s body is found since July

Ekurhuleni residents are demanding urgent action to improve the safety of women after the police have confirmed the discovery of a ninth woman’s body in the metro since July. The latest body was found in Dorn Park, Boksburg, with the police saying a multidisciplinary team of detectives, intelligence officers and forensic specialists is investigating the deaths and whether they are linked. EFF Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate Nthabiseng Tshivhenga says the repeated discoveries have left communities gripped by fear. She is calling for greater police visibility, improved lighting, maintenance of public spaces and closer cooperation between the municipality and the South African Police Service.

Rotary Cycle Classic introduces new gravel race

The Rotary Cycle Classic returns this October with a new gravel race alongside its traditional road race. Convener Delano Hansen says proceeds from the event will support charity projects benefiting less fortunate communities.

Labour expert calls for stronger workplace safety enforcement

Labour expert Sydwill Scholtz says workplace safety must go beyond physical protection to include employees’ emotional and mental well-being. He is calling for stronger follow-up inspections and adequate support for workers affected by workplace fatalities.

Namibia urged to strengthen AI regulation and awareness

Namibian researcher Suzie Shefeni says young Namibians should view artificial intelligence (AI) as both an opportunity and a risk. She urges young people to understand AI’s capabilities and risks while staying informed about regulation and safeguards.

Mariental hospital oxygen plant repairs expected to resume

Repairs to the oxygen generation plant at Mariental District Hospital are expected to be completed soon, according to the Ministry of Health and Social Services. The plant, which can produce up to about 500 litres of oxygen per minute, was switched off on 30 July after developing faults. The ministry says the hospital has since been relying on oxygen cylinders to support patients, particularly those requiring continuous oxygen. Ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya says a meeting between the ministry, the health directorate and the company responsible for the repairs has identified a possible solution, with repairs expected to address the problem soon.

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