Page 4 Page 7
Debmarine Steinhoff Chairperson
employees aid Heather Sonn
communities has resigned
DEMOCRACY IN THE MIRROR
www.observer.com.na
Trustco plans to retrench 300 Staff Writer
T
rust Holdings (Trustco), a
company majority owned by its
billionaire Managing Director,
Quinton van Rooyen is planning to
retrench over 300 employees.
Information gleaned by the Windhoek
Observer shows the company has
already started the process at its Morse
Investment and Northern Namibia
Development Company units , and has
now also written to all its employees
informing them of the management
decision, which is being implemented
as part of cost cutting measures.
“Given the current circumstances,
market conditions and probability
that the global economy would
deteriorate even further, the decision
Full tuition fees unfair - NANSO
ANDREW KATHINDI
Staff Writer
T
he Namibia National Students
Organisation (NANSO) says
students should not have to pay
full tuition fees while not receiving full
tuition services.
NANSO Secretary-General, Patience
Masua speaking to Windhoek Observer,
said it doesn’t make sense for education
institutions to charge full school fees in
the midst of the world wide pandemic
and national state of emergency, given
Quinton van Rooyen
that all students have been at home.
As a response to the visible impact of the COVID-19 lockdown and associated restrictions on the economic sector, the Namibia Training
Authority announces the following:
• The deadline for the submission of Employer Training Grant (ETG) claim applications is extended from 1 May 2020 to 5 June 2020.
• ETG claim evidence requirements have been relaxed and now only include invoices and proof of payment for training costs.
The VETERP online platform remains open to revisit and amend claims already submitted. For guidance on the completion and submission of
claims, view our ETG video as per the following link: https://youtu.be/X93KJVNxINM
ETG claims deadline extended from
For more information, contact us at:
Tel: 061-2078 168/505/170 | levyclaims@nta.com.na | www.nta.com.na
SINCE 6 MAY 1978
The decision to retrench
employees in several of the
operating and non-profitable
divisions has been made and
that process will be continued
in the coming months.
to retrench employees in several of the
operating and non-profitable divisions
has been made and that process will
be continued in the coming months,”
Elmarie Janse van Rensburg, Trustco
Group’s Group Head: Corporate Affairs
said in the email to staff.
“No institution can demand full costs if
they don’t deliver services at full capacity.
If you’re not paying for electricity,
water, full salaries etc, there’s no way
that you can demand full fees. Even if
you’re doing online learning, you’re not
operating at full capacity because the
service you’re providing is online and not
a full-time service that students would
ordinarily have to receive,” said Masua.
“If you don’t operate at maximum
capacity you cannot demand for all 100
percent of the fees, it doesn’t make sense,
particularly because of the pandemic
we’re facing.”
Responding to questions about the
Page 10
Artists on
lockdown:
Jyz Yorke
MONDAY 18 MAY 2020
Although the initial process is
currently voluntary, the Windhoek
Observer is reliably informed should the
offer not have sufficient takers to meet
the targeted number of employees at the
end of August 2020, the company will
identify additional staff.
“Trustco as your employer proposes
to pay to the voluntary retrenched
Employee, based on current wages, the
following as voluntary retrenchment
package, subject to complying with
applicable tax laws.”
On offer to employees is one month’s
full remuneration as notice pay for work
done for the final month of employment,
calculated until last day of service, one
week’s remuneration for each year of
continuous service completed, Trustco
shall pay any accrued but unused
accumulated leave days, unvested shares
Ministry of Higher Education’s position
regarding student fees, Executive
Director, Alfred van Kent said the matter
was complex.
“On the one side you have Higher
Education Institutions (HEI) who has
committed to produce and upload online
materials. Lecturers and administrative
staff who are also parents, depend on
salaries, services and contracts to be
honoured. For private HEI, their revenue
comes mainly from students,” he said.
He added that the socio-economic
issues brought on by the pandemic
are real and the ministry is currently
engaging student leaders pertaining
N$5 (INC.VAT)
@whkobserver
of the employee will vest immediately on
the date of termination in the name of the
employee.
To sweeten the offer, Trustco has
offered an additional two months’
notice pay equivalent to one full month’s
remuneration and to pay the agreed
retrenchment package as a single lump
sum less tax.
The company has also put on hold
salary increases for its management and
supporting staff.
“The annual salary increases of all
employees from supervisor level and up
(Supervisor, Manager, COO, Head, Top6
support and Top6) including the Top 40
are suspended with immediate effect
until further notice. Salary increases
on employee level will continue, but
TO PAGE 2
support strategies for all who are
enrolled.
Efforts to reach the Students Union
of Namibia (SUN) President, Simon
Amunime, for comment proved futile as
his phone was unavailable.
Despite demanding student fees
in full, the International University of
Management (IUM) has announced that
it will cut its staff’s salaries by 40 percent.
Meanwhile according to statistics
provided to NANSO by Namibia Council
for Higher Education (NCHE) 34,850
tertiary students don’t have access to
TO PAGE 2
2 MONDAY 18 MAY 2020
NATIONAL
Niikondo appointed NUST acting VC
Staff Writer
T
he Namibia University of
Science and Technology
(NUST) Council has appointed
Dr Andrew Niikondo as the university’s
new Acting Vice-Chancellor, effective
19 May 2020.
Niikondo’s appointment follows the
expiry of the acting term of Morné Du
Toit, who now reverts to his substantive
position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor:
Trustco plans to retrench 300
FROM PAGE 1
will be fixed on an annual basic Cost
of Living Adjustment (COLA) only,”
Rensburg’s email read. When contacted
for comment, Trustco Spokesperson,
Neville Basson said, “ I cannot comment
on unverified information.”
Trustco is a dual listed diversified
financial services group which has an
interest in insurance and investments;
resources; and banking and finance,
and owns companies such as Trustco
Bank, Meya Mining in Sierra Leone,
the Northern Namibia Development
Company, and Morse Investments.
Trustco is in the process of developing
the Herboths Blick development outside
Windhoek on the way to Hosea Kutako
International Airport, which when
complete, will be a new town with urban
[COVID-19]
GOOD
HYGIENE
is in your hands
Clean your hands frequently
using an alcohol based hand
rub or wash with soap under
running water for at least
20 seconds.
Ministry of Health and Social Services
Finance and Administration.
Dr Niikondo is expected to serve for
a period of six (6) months, or until the
position is substantially filled, which ever
date is earlier.
“It is envisaged that the recruitment of
the Vice-Chancellor will be concluded in
the second half of the year. The Council is
confident that Dr Niikondo will lead the
University according to the best of his
abilities, particularly during this difficult
time of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Dr Niikondo holds a National Diploma
high-rise apartment blocks, sporting
facilities, schools, and a university.
Currently government, according to
media reports, has been taken to court
by employers who are challenging the
authority of the Executive through
the Ministry of Labour to suspend
selected parts of the Labour Act during
Namibia’s current state of emergency.
They want the government’s actions
declared unconstitutional.
The Ministry of Labour’s measures
stipulate that during the Namibia’s
Covid-19 lockdown period, employers
may not dismiss any of their employees
because of the impact of the Covid-19
pandemic on their businesses, they may
not force employees to take unpaid leave
or annual leave due to the pandemic,
and they may not reduce the pay of
any employee for reasons related to
Covid-19.
Toll Free: 0800 100 100
Nationhood and national pride programme
in Public Management, obtained at
the Polytechnic of Namibia in 1995, a
B-Tech Degree in Public Management
from Technikon South Africa (TSA)
in 1999, a Master’s Degree in Public
Administration from the University of the
Western Cape in 2002, and a Doctoral
Degree in Public Administration from
the University of Namibia in 2008. He
served in the EXCO of the University for
a period of nine (9) years, first as Vice-
Rector: Academic Affairs and Research
from 2011 until 2018 and thereafter
FROM PAGE 1
laptops to even participate in the online
learning alternative that has been made
available by most universities.
Masua said after reaching out to
various institutions, the Namibia
University of Science and Technology
(NUST) and the University of Namibia
(UNAM) have agreed to provide
students data dongles after the Namibia
Students Financial Assistance Fund
(NSFAF) announced that it was giving
each student a payout to buy a laptop.
“It would be pointless for students
to have laptops without access to any
software for e-learning. But even so,
you have some students staying 8-20
in one household. Even if you have the
hardware, there is no accessibility (no
data) and, no conducive learning that
can take place. In university they have
hostels and libraries. Environment plays
Republic of Namibia
#
in partnership with:
as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic,
since 2018 to date.
“Furthermore, it is Council’s wish
to see the Institution flourish and to
continue creatively meeting the needs
of students, society and the economy
through multiple pathways for excellent
education, research, innovation and
collaborations with the stakeholders.
Council is therefore calling on all NUST
staff members, stakeholders and the
wider community to pledge their support
to Dr Niikondo’s leadership during this
Full tuition fees unfair - NANSO
a big role to learning,” she said.
Masua said on their part, NANSO has
given maximum efforts, both in terms
of hardware and software to voice the
concerns of the students and learners
in their engagements with the various
stakeholders.
She said the organization has also
delivered food parcels in the Khomas
region, in the Coastal region and will
soon be going to the south, east and
northern regions for that purpose in due
course to mitigate some of the negative
impacts of the pandemic on students.
Currently schools are slated to open
on August 3 for face-to-face teaching,
however there is no set date for the re-
opening of tertiary institutions.
Masua said she is tentatively
optimistic about government’s decision
to reopen the schools but was wary of
www.observer.com.na
Dr Andrew Niikondo
transition period.”
“Council is thankful for Mr Du Toit’s
leadership over the past six months at
the helm of NUST, a responsibility that
the current Council entrusted him with,
as well as, for the previous period of
acting.”
the August date’s impact on next year’s
school calendar year.
“The reason why government made
that decision is to protect the quality
of education and also the health of
the learners. If the learners go back to
school, they will be out of control. We
are in talks with government to have
a transitional approach. The Ministry
of Basic Education has responded
very positively to the suggestion of a
transitional approach so that we protect
the academic year that will end only
in December. For students at tertiary
institutions, they will only open at the
end of the State of Emergency.
“We welcome the fact that the health
of students is a priority, but we don’t
welcome any decision that would be the
detriment of those studying in schools
and universities,” she said.
@whkobserver MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 3

NATIONAL
ADVERT

MINISTRY OF INDUSTRIALISATION AND TRADE

CURRENT PUBLIC FACE MASK PRODUCERS AND SUPPLIERS NATIONWIDE
The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade (MIT) has compiled a list of local manufacturers who are producing and supplying reusable and washable public face masks from all 14 Regions. This list will guide the General Public while providing information on
where they can buy these masks. This is an indication that Namibia has sufficient production capacity for face masks.

KHOMAS 8 Trina Trading Enterprises CC Oshakati 0812753241 12 Gottlieb Shangeelao Ongenga 0812117082 5 IShana Designs CC Swakopmund 0814509303
BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 9 Dynamic Five Trading CC Oshakati 0811299390 13 Petrus Kambeu Endola 0814336011 6 NAF and Math Investments Walvis Bay 0811287745
CC
1 Dinapama Manufacturing Windhoek 0811275866 10 Seco Trading Enterprises CC Ongwediva 0812214411 14 Lidia Simeon Endola 0812739012
7 Cereal Investments Swakopmund 0813149662
2 NH Manufacturing Windhoek 0812550791 11 Enkali Professional Ongwediva 0813347097
Schoolwear /Jormos 8 Desert Trend Trading Henties Bay 0812467308
3 NM Katila Trading Windhoek 0813316735 Investment CC KAVANGO WEST Enterprises CC
4 MN Creation Windhoek 0816798770 12 Kahili Boutique Uukwangula 0812140248 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 9 Acky Boutique Swakopmund 0812156295
5 Adolf Trading CC Windhoek 0812177858 13 Exclusive African Classics Oshakati 0811488251 1 Oyiwanawa Fashion Design Nkurenkuru 0813509919 10 Atuukakuni Trading CC Swakopmund 0813158927
6 Valour Clothing Accessories Windhoek 0814749546 Individuals 2 Nsigwe Nage Muntu Nkurenkuru 0815777491 11 K and K Design and Swakopmund 0817367776
Investment CC Training CC
7 Tiringa Tailor and Fashion Windhoek 0813749216 14 Johanna Fillip Ondangwa 0817177167
Designer 3 Himarwankuru Trading Nkurenkuru 0813355310 12 Petmer Investment CC Walvis Bay 0817806879
15 Rosalia Amadhila Oshakati 0812438998
8 The Tailor Man –Windhoek Windhoek 0817873146 4 Kora Nyara Sewing Project Nkurenkuru 0813604315 13 Wool-YS Investment Swakopmund 0812197997
T/A SAF Investments CC 16 Martha Haikali Oshakati 0812471821
( Khomas and Oshikoto) 14 Hilka Sewing Karibib 0812976329
17 Juty Indongo Oshakati 0818439848
9 Kiitenge Tailoring and Windhoek 0812740414 KAVANGO EAST 15 Hinando Trading CC Karibib 0816917626
General Suppliers 18 Alina Shiimi Oshakati 0812973572
BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 16 Marrels B Investment CC Karibib 0812680144
10 Rachel’s Creations CC Windhoek 0817873690 19 Mee Letti Ondangwa 0811242564
1 Yetu Garment Manufacturing Rundu 0812974408 17 Messy Creation Investment Walvis Bay 0818961014
11 Susnam Sofima ( Pty) Ltd Windhoek 0811473558 CC
18 Elkana Design Suits and Walvis Bay 0813095114
12 Robust Investment CC Windhoek 0811505050 OMAHEKE 2 Nkanda Urama Sewing Rundu 0812225494 Safaris CC
13 Momson Trading CC Windhoek 0813395252 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 3 Helalia Trading Enterprises Rundu 0813037806 19 Donlos Trading Walvis Bay 0818961014
CC
14 Tuna Shange Tailoring Windhoek 0813798064 1 Ngevii Investments CC Gobabis 0813293131 20 Rachmat Trading Enterprises Arandis 0812023789
and Gifts 4 Untamed Boutique Rundu 0814395710
2 W. S. Pogisho Trading Gobabis 0814729920
15 Omshasho Brand Windhoek 0812775812 Enterprises 5 Brigita Fashion Design Rundu 0813229803
ZAMBEZI
16 Nepety Trading Enterprises Windhoek 0815529072 3 Lambunga Fashion and Gobabis 0812351091
CC Design BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER
OTJOZONDJUPA
17 Eyambeko Garments Design Windhoek 0814435552 Individuals 1 Tsalach Fashion and Event Katima Mulilo 0813254481
BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER
18 Inansa Investments CC Windhoek 0812355588 4 Magdalena Kakishi Gobabis 0816714196 2 Sim Eressy Trading Katima Mulilo 0814619594
1 Ndeyanale Fast sewing Otjiwarongo 0812474427
19 Tarew General Trading CC Windhoek 0816429025 5 Wilhemiena Kanyeme Gobabis 0812835375 3 CKP Trading Enterprises Katima Mulilo 0813196217
2 Erapi Ewa Fabrics Otjiwarongo 0813359120
20 Efficiente Commercial Group Windhoek 812300980 6 Henderline Vries Gobabis 0815620200 4 New Word Fashion Katima Mulilo 0812964272
3 Atukongo Investment CC Otjiwarongo 0813020901
21 Stoneland Investment CC Windhoek 0816117218 5 Jakuchi Graphics Katima Mulilo 0813344803
4 Pillowchick Otjiwarongo 0813765169
22 Penda Enterprises CC Windhoek 0811299797 OMUSATI 6 Nyanda Nyanda Trading Katima Mulilo 0812322643
5 Oujeauhe Tradng Enterprises Otjiwarongo 0811226124
23 Eyambeko Garments Design Windhoek 0814435552 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER Individuals
6 Handy Ladies Enterprises Grootfontein 0814164480
24 Kavaamwa Trading Windhoek 0811700001 1 Nande Trading CC Outapi 0812009868 7 Winnie Mukengami Ngweze 0816465990
7 Dantago Textiles Okahandja 0812428348
Enterprises 2 Redeem Trading CC Outapi 0813103808
Individuals
25 VJ Mulwa Windhoek 0813215152 3 Uncle Nuule Trading CC Outapi 0812806098 HARDAP
8 Helga Nieumann Otavi 0816461426
26 Wanaheda Medical Centre Windhoek 0811490566 4 Shape Trading CC Outapi 0812009868 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER
9 Paulina Fuuma Otavi 0815809308
27 New Vision Consultancy Windhoek 0811240871 5 Lote's Fashion Design Outapi 0812229502 1 Erna Clothing Designer Mariental 0812059474
10 Mr Batseba Otjiwarongo 0812439503
28 Linus Ngomushalo Windhoek 0812418660 6 Okahao Fashion Design Okahao 0812585261 2 Ndelaina Trading Enterprises Mariental 0812755506
Investment CC 11 Henderline Vries Otjiwarongo 0815620200
7 Shining Angel Ruacana 0812365843 3 Oogies Investments Mariental 0816805637
29 Naemi Keshomwali Fashion Windhoek 0812856871 12 Hilma Tshilombo Otjiwarongo 0817589456
and Tailoring CC Individuals 4 Tobina Investments Mariental 0813837791
13 Mbahepa Kandanga Grootfontein 0812626206
30 Naupe Trading CC Windhoek 0816146597 8 Naango Outapi 0818517363 5 Shondi Trading Mariental 0813877445
31 Tumashange Tailoring Windhoek 0813798064 9 Lydia Nepolo Tsandi 0812720405 6 Omuru Investments Rehoboth 0812300145
KUNENE
32 RedGate Invesments CC Windhoek 0812131701 10 Elizabeth Amalovu Okahao 0813994909 7 JC Schoolwear Rehoboth 0816698084
BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER
33 Owera Investments CC Windhoek 0815782441 8 Petoors Trading Enterprises Leonardville 0812461255
1 Kunene Ours Investment Outjo 0816976593
34 Sharp Design Windhoek 0814259314 OSHIKOTO (Pty)Ltd 9 Survival Catering and Mariental 0814017147
Tailoring CC
35 Dela Décor Trading Windhoek 0812947336 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 2 Maturoro Tailoring Outjo 0818226706
Enterprise CC 10 Amalia Art and Crafts CC Aranos 0814400518
1 Paris Investments CC Omuthiya 0812441985 3 Oye Fashion Design Opuwo 0812297291
36 Jazee Trading CC Windhoek 0811439577 Individuals
2 Sweet Tailoring Trading Onayena 0812858940 4 Jasuverovandu Designing CC Opuwo 0816877960
37 Josita Enterprises Groot Aub 0814171814 Enterprises CC 11 Moeti Fleermuys Mariental 0818145580
5 Okuhepa Tailoring Epupa 0813488234
38 Ndakondjela Boutique Windhoek 0812240411 3 Rhino Work Wear CC Tsumeb 0812390128 12 Jacky Motinga Mariental 0812718615
6 Ratutuma Hungi Trading Ozombapa 0813164289
39 Aloe Lime Invetsments Windhoek 0817917545 4 Sesilia Clothing Design and Omuthiya - Enterprise CC 13 Anna Marie Witbooi Mariental 0814408261
Collection CC
40 /Khe - boss Invetsments Windhoek 0812579183 7 Rambandjara Trading Okanguati 0813752633 14 Colleen van Wyk Rehoboth 0812708253
5 Mwaandjayi Trading Omuthiya 0812619445 Enterprise CC
41 Monah Creations Windhoek 0813105219 Enterprises 15 Ingrid Gamatham Mariental 0813034650
8 Opuwo Sub-Discount Opuwo 0813561051
42 Mamtai Investments CC Windhoek 0813602769 6 Elfies Trading Company Omuthiya 0812114618 Tailoring 16 Agnes Wittenbach Mariental 0818443456
43 Puurfekt Couture Windhoek 0812300808 IndividualS 9 Donna Investment CC Khorixas 0812795637 17 Sara Swartbooi Aranos 0813117223
44 Effortless Namibia Windhoek 0812788581 7 Annete Kawela Omuthiya 0813417258 10 Rizuvaa Investment Opuwo 0816348143
45 Luxury Investments (Pty) Ltd Windhoek 0817519243 8 Frieda Ashipala Omuthiya 0812555672 11 Epango Rijeura Ouzeu Opuwo 0818546343 //KHARAS
46 Out of Africa Windhoek 0812441891 Sewing Project BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER
9 Selma Gamses Tsintsabis 0812081095
Individuals 12 Kahimbona Trading Opuwo 0812866774 1 Hekta Keetmanshoop 0812605232
Enterprises
44 Dina Afrikaner Windhoek 0815728145 OHANGWENA 2 Susan’s Tailoring Luderitz 0811601116
13 Ngazepowe Investments CC Opuwo 0816636767
45 Evaristus Kaaronda Windhoek 0818566606 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 3 Didi’s Trading Enterprises Keetmanshoop 0812114258
14 Emily’s Tailor Opuwo 0812802012
46 Niita Amwaama Windhoek 0816370306 1 Tuuli Trading CC Eenhana 0812582278 4 Aroab Neddlework Project Keetmanshoop 0812594980
15 Silas Tailoring Khorixas 0812319028
47 Anna Garises Windhoek 0817862169 2 Tuyimo Bag Mike an Eenhana 0816362098 5 AM Creations Keetmanshoop 0813202804
Individuals
48 Luca Moukoko Windhoek 0812025577 Trading CC 6 Zuzelin Mini Multi Fashions Keetmanshoop 0812073359
16 Kainaa Mbomnoro Sesfontein 0814364476 and Cater
49 Rachel Kaiyamo Windhoek 0817873690 3 Homestead Academy Ongula 0813197812
Production Hub yaNetanga 17 Rim Afrikaner Khorixas 0814402511 7 Carolines Needlework Keetmanshoop 0813090320
4 Nangy Designer and Eenhana 0812349696 18 Wilhemine Aipanda Kamanjab 0817021288 8 Denacle Investments Karasburg 0813631206
OSHANA Trading CC
19 Ndunge Komandevi Opuwo 0812297291 Individuals
BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 5 Rebby Fashion Design Eenhana 0816362098
10 Sofia Bloodtsan Keetmanshoop 0812605388
1 Cliffmen Investment Ondangwa 0851274000 6 Emily's Tailor Eenhana 0812802012
(Pty) Ltd ERONGO 11 Claudia Vries Keetmanshoop 0812619299
7 Make my day Mini Market Omafo 0817129006
2 Nyukwa Boutique CC Oshakati 0812463516 BUSINESS NAME LOCATION CONTACT NUMBER 13 Christine Shiindi Luderitz 0812893189
8 Tuhafeni Boutique Eenhana 0812307265
3 Annelly Fasion & Design Ondangwa 0811287806 1 Gracies NL Investment CC Swakopmund 0811279871 14 Martha Pieters Koes 0812131718
Individuals
4 Alex Boutique Oshakati 0812694759 2 NamChoice Bed Linen Swakopmund 0813303328 15 Marley Greenwood Luderitz 0818912823
9 Kaleninasho 0811295657 Manufacturer CC
5 Salshi Ongwediva 0812226799 16 Rauha Akwaake Luderitz 0812831878
10 Fransina Katamba Odibo 0812946496 3 Alletas Uniforms & Sportwear Walvis Bay 0812229782
6 Usuta Couture CC Ongwediva 0813210966 Centre CC 17 Ms. Mungunda Klein Karas 0816281544
11 Justin Haitembu Onhuno 0818162399
7 Hipu Trading CC Ongwediva 0812463460 4 Faithful Designs CC Walvis Bay 0812003396

For further information please contact the following:

NB : Kindly take note that the list will continue to be updated as more producers become available Policy Enquiries: Dr. M. Humavindu +264 61 2837258 or Email: Michael. Humavindu@Mitsmed.gov.na
Technical enquiries: Ilona Nkandi +264 61 2837309 or Email: Ilona.Nkandi@Mitsmed.gov.na
or Mr. Shikongeni.Ntinda +264 811665068 or Email: shikongeni.ntinda@gmail.com
 COVID-19
4 MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 www.observer.com.na

COVID-19

CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019

Bank Windhoek brings water
closer to the community
Staff Writer Three Moses ǁGaroëb
Constituency Community Members

A
team from Bank Windhoek
led by the bank’s Executive
Officer of Marketing
and Corporate Communication
Services, Jacquiline Pack, visited
the Moses ǁGaroëb Constituency
in Windhoek to assess the impact
of water tanks donated to informal
settlements around Windhoek.
Capricorn Group and Bank
Windhoek collaborated in donating
13 tanks, each with a capacity of 10
Debmarine Namibia employees raised fund to help struggling families during the pandemic. 000 litres, to provide safe and clean
water to residents.
Representatives’, Maria Amutenya,
Joseph Joseph, and Thomas Shinana,
thanked Bank Windhoek for the
gesture on behalf of the residents.
Amutenya recalled that they used
to experience challenges with access
to water, which was only available at
specific periods on a prepaid basis.
“Thank you, Bank Windhoek. These
tanks are helping us in fighting the
COVID-19 pandemic since we use the
water for most cleaning and cooking
purposes,” she said.
Joseph said that the community

Debmarine employees aid communities “As a connector of positive change,

we believe that it is essential for us to
take care of our community in which
Staff Writer we operate. And with the COVID-19
pandemic, we thought it necessary to
members are happy with the water
facilities and that they appreciate
it wholeheartedly. “This is helping
us, and the City does regulate the
availability of water in the tanks every

D
ebmarine Namibia employees
took an initiative to reach-
out to those less fortunate
by raising funds to purchase food
parcels that will feed hundreds of
destitute families in Oranjemund,
Okahandja and Windhoek informal
settlements.
The employees raised more than
N$40 000 which was matched by the
Company. A total of N$ 80 000 was
therefore committed to the initiative.
In the true spirit of Show We Care,
last week, 70 families from Otjomuise,
8Ste Laan benefited from the drive
through the Cheerful Givers, a youth
charity organisation which was started
to provide struggling families with
food during the lockdown Windhoek’s
informal settlements.
More family benefited from the drive
through CoFeed Namibia Project,
which is a citizen-driven and the project
aims at mobilizing food supplies and
other necessities for distribution to the
vulnerable within the communities.
More recipients will benefit in
the coming week through CoFeed
Namibia where by Debmarine Namibia
Employees monetary contributions
will be channeled towards buying bulk
Debmarine Namibia employee Martin Shiimi distributing food parcels to the
needy in Otjomuise 8Ste Laan.
supplies.
The funds will be coordinated and
paid directly to various participating
retailers and CoFeed will distribute to
bring safe and clean water as closer as
possible to communities where it is
desperately needed ,” said Pack.
Bank Windhoek’s donation
supports the City of Windhoek’s
Mayoral Relief Fund. Launched in
2016, the Fund assists pensioners,
people living with disabilities, child-
headed homes, individuals in need
of shelter or medical operations,
victims of emergencies and disasters
amongst others - within the Khomas
Region.
The tanks are filled regularly and
serve the densely populated Moses
ǁGaroëb and the Samora Michel
Constituencies, which have limited
access to essential services such as
potable water and electricity. The
locations are some of the City of
Windhoek’s priorities in terms of the
provision of essential services.
The community’s response
the needy.
“The employees were glad to
be helping vulnerable members of
communities during the pandemic.”
second day.
We are indeed grateful and
encourage Bank Windhoek to look
into assisting with at least a few more
of these facilities,” said Joseph.
Shinana, who also reemphasised
Joseph’s request, added: “With the
COVID-19 pandemic, the water tanks
are helping us to adhere to social
distancing measures because there
are fewer queues at water points now.
Thank you very much for this.”
Pack said that Bank Windhoek
places a high premium on this value-
adding relationship with the City
and looks forward to working on
more social agenda and other socio-
economic development projects.
“The importance of water and
personal hygiene will always be key
to human survival. And this has never
been clearer than during this difficult
time,” she said.

Malawi candidate urges supporters to hug

Candidates have been holding rallies in
the run up to an election which is expected
in July
M
alawi Vice-President Mr Chilima has been criticised
Saulos Chilima wants online.
his supporters to “The coronavirus is real, and
literally embrace backers of political leaders need to take a lead
other parties that he’s formed an in encouraging their supporters
alliance with. to adhere to practices that can
He has come under fire for his reduce or impede its spread,”
remarks as there are warnings that Stanley Onjezani Kenani wrote on
this could encourage the spread of Facebook.
coronavirus. “Why are you surprised? Same
Mr Chilima is Lazarus person told Malawians to refuse
Chakwera’s running mate in a lockdown. He (Chilima) doesn’t
presidential election re-run that is care about people,” wrote Bonwell
expected in July. In the cancelled Phiri.
election they ran against each other. His remarks are against the World
To ease suspicion Mr Chilima Heath Organization guidelines for
wanted his supporters to hug the social distancing to prevent the
backers of Mr Chakwera. spread of coronavirus.
He said that “no disease would Malawi has 65 confirmed cases of
catch them”. Covid-19.-BBC
 @whkobserver MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 5

&COVID-19
WORLDNATIONAL
COVID-19
AFRICA CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019

Lesotho’s Finance Minister to

Prime Minister Tom Thabane
replace embattled Thabane
L
esotho’s Finance Minister
Moeketsi Majoro is now that
country’s incoming Prime
Minister.
The Council of State, the body
that advises His Majesty the King,
approved the proposed changes to
parliament.
He will replace embattled Prime
Minister Tom Thabane, who is
expected to hand in his resignation
on Monday. Thabane had been facing
pressure to step down from his position
for several months after falling out of
his party’s favour. He’s been accused
of numerous political tricks to retain
power. This included an attempt to
dissolve parliament.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister
Tom Thabane announced that he
would step down by the end of July.
This was as continuous pressure to
resign from his party, the All Basotho
Convention (ABC) mounted. Being
fingered in the 2017 assassination of
his wife along with the current First
Lady did not help his case.
The final push came when ABC’s
National Executive Committee
withdrew the party from the ruling
coalition forcing it to collapse.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister
Moeketsi Majoro’s name has been
presented to the Council of State, the
body that advises His Majesty the King
to replace Thabane as Prime Minister.
Thabane ready to step down
In January, Tom Thabane had
agreed to step down and retire from
his position. This came after his party,
the ABC and the opposition coalition
applied pressure on him to vacate
office.
Thabane and his wife, Maesaiah, are
linked to the murder of Thabane’s first
wife.
President Cyril Ramaphosa sent
former minister, Jeff Radebe, as the
special envoy to Maseru to facilitate
transitional talks.
Radebe said the coalition
government would announce steps
towards Thabane’s retirement.
“We are very optimistic as a special
envoy, myself and Deputy Minister,
Zizi Kodwa, about what we heard as
the coalition partners and they were
telling us about how the next few days
would be unfolding.”-SABC

China defends
handling of
coronavirus,
backs review of
global response
under WHO T E ND E R S

C
hina’s president called on
Monday for an independent
review of the global response Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb invites registered, competent and experienced companies to tender for the following:
to the coronavirus pandemic under
the World Health Organization
once the virus is under control, and
defended Beijing’s own handling of DPMT20005 TRANSPORTATION OF COPPER CONCENTRATE AND BLISTER
the pandemic.
In a video message to a virtual meeting Transport Copper Concentrate from, the Port in Walvis Bay to the Smelter in Tsumeb and Blister on Backloads from
of the WHO’s decision-making body,
the World Health Assembly, President
the Smelter in Tsumeb to the Port in Walvis Bay.
Xi Jinping also pledged $2 billion over
two years to help with the COVID-19 Details of the Tender
response. Tender document availability:
During the two-day meeting, health From Monday, 18 May 2020. Documents will be available on request
ministers from around the world are via email at: contractsnam@dundeeprecious.com (07h00 to 16h00)
expected to back calls for an independent
evaluation of the WHO’s performance, Cost per set: N$ 200.00 (non-refundable)
criticism of which has been led by US Submission closing date: Wednesday, 17 June at 12h00
President Donald Trump.
The meeting could also be dominated
by tension between China and the DPMT20009 FABRICATION AND SUPPLY OF STAINLESS-STEEL ID FAN CASINGS
United States, which fiercely criticised
Beijing’s response in the early stages of
the pandemic. Fabricate and deliver two stainless steel induced draft (ID) fan casings.
Calling the pandemic “the most
serious global public health emergency
since the end of World War Two”, Xi said: Details of the Tender
“All along we have acted with openness Tender document availability:
From Monday, 18 May 2020. Documents will be available on request
and transparency and responsibility.
“We have turned the tide on the by email at: contractsnam@dundeeprecious.com (07h00 to 16h00)
virus,” he said.
The World Health Assembly is Cost per set: N$ 200.00 (non-refundable)
expected to discuss a resolution being Submission closing date: Wednesday, 17 June at 12h00
presented by the European Union that
calls for an independent evaluation of the Submission requirements details are defined in the tender documents (ITT) and the closing date for submission is
WHO’s performance under its director-
final, no extensions will be granted. Enquiries pertaining to Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb (DPMT) tenders can
general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Names on a draft resolution seen by be directed to:
Reuters showed support from 116 of the
194 countries in the WHO.
Contracts Namibia: contractsnam@dundeeprecious.com
UN Secretary-General Antonio
Guterres called the WHO “irreplaceable” All tender proposals must be clearly marked with the following:
and said it needed greater resources
to provide support for developing Name of Tenderer
countries. Address
Swiss President Simonetta
Sommaruga pledged her country’s “full Official Stamp
support and cooperation” to Tedros Tender No: DPMT20005, DPMT20009
as the WHO coordinates the global Attention: The Tender Board,
response to the coronavirus pandemic, Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb (Pty) Ltd,
which has killed more than 300,000
P.O. Box 936, Tsumeb, Namibia
people worldwide.
The WHO and most experts say the
virus is believed to have emerged in a
market selling wildlife in the central city Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb employs an equal opportunity
Find us on Facebook
of Wuhan late last year. U.S. Secretary of policy. Calls for tenders will be awarded through a competitive
State Mike Pompeo said this month there bidding process which is transparent and open to all. Any  dundeeprecious.com
is “a significant amount of evidence” the
virus came from a laboratory in Wuhan,
persons or companies may bid.
a charge China rejects.-SABC
6 MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 www.observer.com.na

NATIONAL

If you need help, ask for it

N
amibia faces a serious problem of re-paying the Eurobonds that
will come due in October 2021. The time for outside professional,
experienced professionals to address the problem has come. This
cannot be done on the cheap.
We are loathed to make this admission. We have always criticized
government ministries about their dependence on foreign consultants.
Since independence, Namibia has spent hundreds of millions in hard
currency for consultants.
Ministries have paid consultants to do their jobs for them over 30 years.
Consultants contracted for a month to help write one document, were
given every assignment under the sun.
Consultants paid in foreign currency sometimes earned more than
the Ministers. They camped out in certain ministries for years, driving
government cars and living in government housing. Civil servants enjoyed
handing off their work.
Many of these consultants are unable to find work in their home
countries. They have made a career of fleecing developing countries and
delivering half-baked outputs. Learning during ‘Lockdown’ and beyond
There was little skills transfer with most of these consultants. Ministries
remained as ignorant when the consultant left as they were before the ALBIN JACOBS
consultant came.
However, COVID-19 is a game-changer. We need help with this

W
Eurobond pay-back issue. Well-supervised consultants are needed. ith a phased “Lockdown’
This is not the time for comrades, people with mail-order PhDs or MBAs for at least another
from imaginary island universities. We have no time to hire local or South few weeks, life really
African whites with no international finance experience. They are equally has transformed in Namibia for
expert in inflating contracts for their services as the tenderpreneurs. We everyone. Well, life as we know it
across the globe has changed forever.
need professional, experienced financial gurus who understand Eurobonds
We have all been trying to keep
and how they work. We need bricks and mortar, not papier-mâché. busy, some still just trying to work
Solution options must be researched, tested and then presented from home, others baking, learning
according to a set timeline. to paint, catching up on sleep or
We believe the global conspiracy theories about international financial rehearsing the ever-important
institutions, transnational companies and Western political bullying. TikTok dances. O yes, and brewing
Desperate times call for desperate measures. We should contact the IMF has become popular in many homes.
and World Bank for experts. The United Nations, African Union and other We all cope in different ways.
However, now with the extended
treaty organizations to which Namibia belongs, must also be approached
“Lockdown’ the thought turns to what
for candidates. We are backed in a corner and need to come out fighting. else to do. Picking up studies that fell
There is no wiggle room. Those bonds will be honoured on time, one way by the wayside, or finally finding the
or another. We do not now have the money to do that. time to sit and think how you want
We are not experts, but there could be ugly scenarios that can occur to develop yourself academically
should we default. Bondholders could move fast to ‘take’ their money in becomes something to explore. This is
very public and ugly ways. Namibia’s financial reputation, already on life where distance education comes into
support, will flatline. its own, it is as if it was designed for a
There could be huge penalties, lawsuits, super high-interest rates on “Lockdown” scenario.
Distance learning is not learning
new bonds and other nasty repercussions. Our people will mine diamonds,
in isolation, even if you are in
catch fish, and raise cattle to pay off Eurobond holders for generations. “Lockdown”. Your network of other
Let us hope our creditors permit us to have oshifima and relish at least students, lecturers and tutors are all
once a day. online. Students still work together
Other countries like Greece, were financial basket cases a few years ago. in groups; they have sounding boards Albin Jacobs
Now, with EU and top-level consultants, they have reason to hope. They and people to learn from. This is all
had to suffer the slaughtering of all sacred cows (like civil servant salaries, part of the distance learning education academic journey. With the added is not your idea of personal growth
union demands, huge parliaments, money for political parties and perks process. There are even dedicated benefit of adhering to the “Lockdown” during “Lockdown” and beyond,
forums and chatrooms online for and being a team player in keeping then perhaps pursuing that certificate
for high office holders). They were reviving. Of course, after the pandemic,
the students to interact and share Namibia safe and flattening the curve. or degree is the perfect alternative.
those repairs may not hold. Still, the tearful path they took (or parts of it), ideas. You don’t have to set meetings, Technology is constantly and Come out of the very challenging
could be fit for us. reschedule or commute to meet for rapidly evolving and this is driving situation we find ourselves in with new
Namibia needs experts like these other distressed countries had. The assignments. By using available the evolution of distance learning. academic knowledge and an accredited
Eurobond clock is winding down. technologies, it ensures access to a Recorded lectures, live streaming qualifications.
We can argue all day about how our high-potential country ended up wealth of up-to-date information for or video clips are used in higher The future of distance learning
in this situation. That shouting match won’t pay the bonds. There were the distance learning student. You education all around the world. With is bright in Africa, the world’s
global international occurrences over the decades that pushed Namibia to can do it from the comfort of your the proliferation of the Internet, email present challenging times because of
the wall. Decisions made before independence by the whites-only, wasteful own home and now with the social and social media, distance learning COVID19 have brought it into even
distancing rules it makes perfect sense has become more accessible in sharper focus.
colonial government and some made over the last 30 years, put us close to
to study from home. Namibia’s remote areas; all you need Change your “Lockdown” story and
that wall in the first place. With a multitude of courses, higher is an internet connection. We are now start that course you have always been
Let us send up a flare; an S.O.S, and import the skills set needed to work certificates, degrees and even Masters even at a point where due to school meaning to do, pursue that higher
with us (not for us), to get Plans A, B and C (and maybe D) in place. degrees that can be pursued through closures children will also be engaging certificate, diploma or degree that you
If we fall asleep on this key issue and wake up just before the deadline distance learning, there really isn’t a in distance learning. have been dreaming of to transform
hits, Namibia might collapse. reason not to take the next step in your So, if baking bread or brewing your life. Embrace the new normal.

ADDRESS: P. O. BOX 2255 WINDHOEK OBSERVER HOUSE CORNER OF JOHN MEINERT AND ROSSINI STREETS TEL: 061 411 800 FAX: 061 226 098
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kuvee Kangueehi editor@observer.com.na SENIOR EDITOR Jackie Wilson Asheeke
MARKETING/ADVERTISING - sales@observer.com.na - 061 411 800 PUBLISHERS Paragon Media PRINTERS Newsprint
 @whkobserver MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 7
JSE FTSE ALL SHARE INDEX EXCHANGE RATES

Highlghs
Market Major Pairs Ask Bid OPINION &NATIONAL
ANALYSIS
EUR/USD 1.08591 1.08577
USD/EUR 0.92101 0.92089
GBP/USD 1.21905 1.21886
MONDAY
USD/GBP 0.82044 0.82031 18 MAY
USD/CAD 1.40162 1.40144 2020
CAD/USD 0.71355 0.71346

www.observer.com.na SINCE 6 MAY 1978 @whkobserver

@whkobserver

Steinhoff Chairperson Heather Sonn has resigned

H
eather Sonn, the chairperson
of Steinhoff, has resigned
from all her functions at the
the multinational retailer.
In a statement on Monday morning,
Sonn said a company in which she is
a shareholder, Gamiro Ventures, had
“unwittingly” completed a transaction
with Geros Financial Services that “now
appears may have been associated with
and (indirectly) funded by the company
(Steinhoff)”.
“In December 2017 I requested that
this transaction be placed on the list
for investigation by PwC when a name
in the shareholding structure of the
shareholder of Geros was recognised
as a name that also appeared in the
Viceroy Report.
“Unfortunately, it has taken over 2
years to get to a conclusion as to the
nature of the relationship between the
company and Geros, but there were
multiple priorities for the company at
the time,” she said.
Sonn said that “based on what is now
known to me” the transaction “would
have required certain disclosures
which I would have made had I been
aware thereof”. Peter Wakkie, the vice
chairperson of Steinhoff’s Supervisory
Board, said in a statement that
Sonn had “in no way been found to
have participated in the accounting
irregularities at Steinhoff”.
Sonn was appointed the scandal
plagued retailer’s acting chairperson
in mid-December 2017, following the
resignation of billionaire Christo Wiese.
Her position was made permanent the
following year.
A member of the retailer’s board at
the time, Sonn took up the role barely
a week after Steinhoff’s CEO Markus
Jooste abruptly resigned at the start of
a wide-ranging accounting scandal that
has caused the company’s share price
to plunge by over 95%. - fin24.com Heather Sonn

Pointbreak Money Market Fund resilient in volatile markets

T
he Pointbreak Money Market
Fund has as its primary
objective to provide money
market returns with 24-hour
liquidity, with capital preservation
and liquidity taking precedence over
the maximization of yield.
The Bank of Namibia and the South
African Reserve Bank have already cut
rates twice this year, during March and
April, to take the bank rate to 4.25%,
largely to cushion the economic impact
caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Commercial Bank deposit rates have
also dropped in line with these moves,
with the 12-month Wibar declining by
2.25% and the Commercial Banks’ call
rate dropping by 1.90% to 4.65% since
the beginning of February.
Bank deposit rates have continued
to edge lower because of market
conditions and excess cash liquidity
in the banking system. There is a
possibility that the bank rate drops
again this year.
To date the Pointbreak Money
Market Fund yield has dropped by
0.55% over the comparable three-
month period. Our forecasting models
indicate that the fund’s yield should
under current market conditions
experience a gradual decrease over
the next few months. The fund’s
investment strategy and maturity
duration of 133 days should however
result in the yield falling at a slower
pace compared to the bank deposit
rates. Investors benefit from the fund’s
maturity profile consisting of longer
dated, higher yielding money market
deposits and securities.
The Pointbreak Money Market Fund
has always been competitive and should
remain so, compared to local cash and
other money market alternatives. The
money market fund yield is influenced
by Bank of Namibia rate cuts as well as
market and economic conditions.
“In light of current economic
uncertainties and market conditions
the fund has increased the cash reserve
to just over 20% of the fund from an
average of 15% before the Covid-19
crises. Capital preservation and
liquidity will always take precedence
over chasing yield. Apart from this
slightly more defensive stance the
investment strategy has not changed
and is consistently applied” says Tony
Edmunds of Pointbreak Wealth.
The fund only invests with the four
major banking groups in Namibia, five
major banking groups in South Africa,
Namibia Savings Bank (Nampost)
and the Sovereign’s of both countries,
as well as other large Money Market
funds.
The Pointbreak Money Market Fund
is managed by Ashburton Unit Trust
Management Company Ltd, which is
a member of the FirstRand Namibia
Group. The Fund remains suitable for
investors seeking a low risk investment
that earns competitive money market
income whilst preserving capital.
These returns are distributed as
dividends after withholding tax has
been deducted. The return is net of
fees and costs.
With inflation in Namibia at 1.6%
p.a., the fund currently offers a real
return of over 3%. For the first time
in a long time the Money Market fund
which gives a return of 6.30% p.a.
(6.10% nacm) offers a higher return
than Treasury Bills (5.20% p.a.).
Treasury Bill rates are however fixed
for 12 months while money market
rates change daily and is expected to
reduce over the next few months.

EXTENSION OF CLOSING DATE FOR BIDS

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

1. Bidders are invited to submit proposals for the following work & services required:
NCS/ONB/AGRI - 03/2019-2020 2. Interested eligible bidders may inspect the bidding Documents at the address given below.

Provision of security Services at Agribank Head Office & Gobabis 3. Qualification requirements can be obtained from the bid document.
Branch
Closing date: 11H00, 27 May 2020. 4. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be acquired as follows:
4.1 Procurement No. NCS/ONB/AGRI - 03/2019-2020 may be purchased as instructed in the bid
Technical Enquiries: Mrs. Victoria Hauwanga - Tel: 061 207 4221, document
vhauwanga@agribank.com.na 4.2 Procurement No. W/RFQ/AGRI-01/2019-2020 may be purchased as instructed in the bid
document

W/RFQ/AGRI-01/2019-2020 5. Bids must be delivered to Agribank Head Office, Reception, Ground Floor as per the closing
Renovations to the Agribank Zambezi Branch Offices in Katima Mulilo date and time specified. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected.
Closing date: 11H00, 27 May 2020.
6. The address(es) referred to above is(are): Agricultural Bank of Namibia, Website:
Technical Enquiries: Mrs. Victoria Hauwanga - Tel: 061 207 4221, http://agribank.com.na/page/bidders
vhauwanga@agribank.com.na Administrative Enquiries:
Okeri Mbingeneeko, Tel: +264 61 207 4327, tenders@agribank.com.na
agribank agribank Windhoek Head Office Katima Mulilo Mariental Midland (Windhoek) Otjiwarongo Oshakati Rundu Gobabis
(061) 207 4111 (066) 252 060 (063) 242 818 (061) 207 4202 (067) 304 596 (065) 221 358 (066) 255 645 (062) 577 800/1
www.agribank.com.na info@agribank.com.na katima@agribank.com.na southern@agribank.com.na midland@agribank.com.na otjeroku@agribank.com.na oshakati@agribank.com.na kavango@agribank.com.na gobabis@agribank.com.na
8 MONDAY 18 MAY 2020
PROPERTY
Smoothing the way to a downsize
I
f you’re a home-owner planning
a move to a smaller property that
costs less to run and requires
less maintenance, now is the ideal
time to start making those tough
decisions about what furniture and
possessions to take with you, and
what you won’t need anymore.
“The nationwide lockdown has
already prompted many people to
tidy cupboards, clean out garages
and declutter their homes,” says
Gerhard Kotzé, MD of the RealNet
estate agency group, “and now they
are starting to look at how they can
simplify their lives even more – while
also pruning their accommodation
expenses.
“For many, this points to a
move from their current home to
another - often smaller - residence
where they would have lower utility
bills, municipal rates charges and
maintenance costs, and possibly a
higher level of security. We have seen
this in the surge of enquiries we have
had in the past month for Sectional
Title townhouses and apartments, not
only from first-time buyers, but also
from many existing home-owners now
contemplating a move.”
What is more, he says, most of
these prospective buyers don’t want
to wait until lockdown is lifted to list
their properties for sale and start
hunting for something smaller or less
expensive.
“However, with downsizing comes
the inevitable need to decide which
belongings to keep and which to let
go – and we would seriously suggest
CALL FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF A MARBLE MINE
This notice serves to inform all interested and affected parties that an
application for the environmental clearance certificate will be launched with the
Environmental Commissioner in terms of the Environmental Management Act
(No.7 of 2007) and the Environmental Regulations (GN 30 of 2012). The
project will comprise of marble mining activities.
Location: The proposed development is located 15 km northeast of Karibib on
farm Okawayo, Erongo Region.
Proponent: Sunsand Investments (Pty) Ltd
All interested and affected parties are hereby invited to register and submit their
comments regarding the proposed project on or before 27/05/2019. Contact
details for registration and further information:
Mr. N Amutenya
Email: eia@impalac.com
Tel: + 264856630598
WANT TO
ADVERTISE?
CALL 411800
that those who are contemplating
such a move should use this period of
continued restrictions under Level 4 to
do so. This will make things so much
easier when they are allowed to move.”
• First things first
Kotzé says the first thing to
concentrate on is “quality over
quantity”, which means selecting
those things that are most useful, most
durable and most valuable, and not
keeping things for purely sentimental
reasons or “just in case” you might
need them or find a space for them.
“If you have been keeping heirlooms
for grown children, now is also the
time for them to decide if they want
them for their own homes, while any
surplus belongings are boxed up for
collection by your favourite charities.
There are already many people who
Why agent-led, virtual valuations matter right now
T
he property industry
has rallied to implement
contingency measures to
enable property professionals
to work remotely and continue
servicing their clients during
lockdown and, with the deeds office
opening again, another significant
obstacle has been overcome, with
valuations now also being done
virtually.
Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen
Sotheby’s International Realty says
that virtual valuations are an excellent
solution to the problem, as most of the
process can easily be done remotely.
“However, we only advise agent led
virtual property valuations. Anyone
can ask you to fill out an online form
and spit out an automated result. If
only it were that simple! We pride
ourselves on our brokers’ experience
and skill in order to get you the right
price for your property.
“The basis of an evaluation is a
standard calculation using data from
the deeds office and recourses like
Lightstone to determine the average
sale price of similar properties in
your area during the past three to six
months.
“And the information needed for an
agent to make a general comparison
can be gleaned from a comprehensive
questionnaire that the seller completes.
‘Not all homes are create equal’
“However, not all homes are equal
as some will have been renovated
or upgraded whilst a similar house
in the same road may still in its
original condition, which is where
clear detailed photos and video walk-
throughs are necessary.
really need your children’s outgrown
clothes, for example, or toys, books,
kitchenware, tools, sporting goods
and even furniture, and that need is
going to be greater in the economic
aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
• Imagination
The second step, he says, is to
imagine how you will make the most
of the space in your new home. “You
“It is the fine art marrying of these
two sets of information, taking into
account current trends, to calculate
an accurate, market-related price that
still requires the skill and knowledge of
an experienced agent.”
Sellers may understandably feel
unsure about exactly what essential
information must be included and
concerned that there may be loopholes
which can cause problems at a later
stage of the transaction, especially if
critical information is omitted.
“That is why an agent partnering
you in completing the virtual valuation
is crucial - the devil is in the detail,”
says Geffen.
According to David Dewar, Director
of Thomson Wilks Attorneys, Notaries
and Conveyancers, the rule of thumb is
to err on the side of caution and give as
much information as possible,
“It’s the unspoken that will affect
the final value and, without being
onsite, the agent cannot inspect those
aspects for themselves so it would be
wise to make the valuation range a bit
wider than normal.
“Agents must also ask for close up
photos of random areas to that they
can zoom in on all photos to look for
issues with a professional eye. Also
include places like the attic and factors
like roofing and insulation.
“If possible, the seller must also
make a video which includes turning
on taps, sprinklers, gas items, fireplace
etc to see that they actually work.”
Dewar says that from a legal
perspective, he recommends that the
voetstoets clause must be included
unless it’s an investment property
where the clause doesn’t apply, in
www.observer.com.na
could plan, for example, to make a
spare bedroom do double duty as an
office, especially if you anticipate that
you will be working from home much
more from now on.
“You could also plan to save space
in your living area by opting to hang a
flat screen monitor on the wall and do
away with a bulky TV stand; by getting
rid of your movie and CD collections
and keeping only digital versions
of the content; by scanning all your
photos and storing them ‘in the cloud’
on a platform like Google Photo, and
by keeping only your most treasured
books.”
• Storage space
Third, you must ensure that there
will be enough storage space in
your new home so that it will stay
uncluttered and not look cramped.
This means taking a careful look at
the photos and videos of homes that
are listed online to see if they have
enough cupboard space in kitchens,
bathrooms and bedrooms – and
imagining where you will put your
belongings. It also means evaluating
your own furniture in terms of any
extra storage space it offers – and
planning for any changes you might
need to make.
Kotzé says that downsizing can
be quite an emotional and stressful
experience, “but is definitely easier if
one has time to sort and plan and start
anticipating the benefits of the move,
including more financial freedom. So
the earlier you can make the decision
and start packing, the better.” –private
property
which case there must be more and
better detailed photos and information
for the agent to work with.
“As soon as a buyer signs a
voetstoets contract, it applies, so if
this makes them nervous, they can put
in an offer ‘subject to viewing within
a week from lockdown’ or a similar
suspensive clause.”
‘Continue to look for ways to
comply’
And he cautions that agents and
clients should rather continue to look
for ways to comply than to get around
the regulations as it is currently still
illegal to visit seller’s homes and
getting arrested is a legal hurdle no-
one wants to face.
Geffen says,“Once the seller
has submitted all the necessary
information the agent will make
contact, he or she will make an
appointment with the agent for a
virtual in-depth discussion regarding
the valuation and, if necessary, to fill
in any blanks the agent may need to
formulate an accurate valuation.
“It’s important that all special
features be included as this will directly
affect the selling price. For instance,
the agent may not be able to see from
the photos that the floor tiles are, in
fact, high-end imported Italian tiles or
that the alarm system is expensive and
state-of-the art.
“Ultimately, if sellers appoint
experienced and knowledgeable
professionals with a thorough
understanding of the local market
in the area, with a little more
collaboration than usual we will see a
renewed spark of activity in the market
once again.”-sabc
 @whkobserver
Here’s how successful people are dealing with the crisis
LAURA GARNETT
A
t this point, most Americans
have been sheltering in place
for almost two months due
to the Covid-19 crisis. For most of
us, this period feels dramatically
different than anything else we’ve
experienced in our lifetimes. Yes,
each of our own lives has been
upended in some way, but we’re also
all part of seismic societal shifts.
More than 30 million people have
filed for unemployment—a record
high that rivals the Great Depression.
And the true economic toll of the
shutdown is only beginning to emerge,
with industries crumbling, massive
companies we’ve known for decades
shutting their doors, thousands of
community businesses suffering, and
the uncertainty of how we’ll all operate
until a vaccine is secured.And though
this pandemic has had a devastating
impact, it’s not the first crisis ever.
Our country has faced many of them
over the past century, and every day
people experience their own individual
crises. In each case, there’s always a
light at the end of the tunnel, even if we
can’t see it yet.
Successful people, especially, aren’t
new to failure or to crisis. In fact, one
of the key stepping stones to achieving
great success is experiencing and
navigating uncertainty, unexpected
hurdles, and failure.
Because when tough things happen,
you have a choice—you can let them
get you down, or you can learn, grow,
and become stronger because of them.
This means that successful individuals
are much more practiced for times of
crisis. Here are five lessons you can
learn from them and apply to the one
we’re facing now:
1. Your Value And Who You Are
Isn’t Going To Change
How can business leaders go on
when the company they’ve been
running has just crumbled? Because
their worth and the value they possess
isn’t tied to their work or their failures.
It’s tied to who they are.
The key to getting to this place of
innate confidence is knowing your
Zone of Genius—the thinking or
problem-solving you’re best at (your
Genius) and the impact that’s most
meaningful to you (your Purpose).
These two data points can help you
figure out how you’re most needed
during times of crisis and change and
understand your value, no matter what
is going on around you. Understanding
your Zone of Genius is the foundation
for everything else.
2. Change Is An Opportunity
As humans, we resist change because
our brains are more comfortable with
the status quo. But when it’s forced,
when we have no other option but to
. . . hint: they aren’t letting it derail them
face it head on, endless possibilities
emerge.
Successful people see change as a
chance to innovate and be creative.
When you change your perspective,
difficult times can often turn into
periods of evolution.
Take my client, Christy, the CEO
of a live events business. Clearly, she
was hard hit with the crisis. However,
Christy is clear on her value and
knows that times of uncertainty are an
opportunity to be strategic.
Instead of panicking, Christy carved
out time in her calendar to think about
her options. When we spoke, she was
calm, excited, energized, and even
optimistic.
While the world was shifting,
Christy’s demeanor made it easy for
us to take her initial thinking and
build out even more ideas for how her
business could pivot and actually be
more successful as a result of the crisis.
Use this time to go inward, to reflect
on what this strange, uncertain time in
life means to you.
You’ll be surprised at what insights
you discover. Journal, meditate and
reflect. Oftentimes, the answers to
what comes next are inside of you, just
waiting for you to take a step back and
pay attention.
3. Money Doesn’t Equal Happiness
Anyone who’s made a lot of money
will be the first to tell you this: Money
may bring comfort, and it may take
away certain worries, but it will not
make you happy. It may be powerful,
but it isn’t magical.
When you’re clear on that,
navigating an economic downturn is
less scary. If you’ve lost your job or you
need to adjust your standard of living,
remember that material items have
nothing to do with true joy. At the very
best, they just bring fleeting moments
of happiness.
Assuming, of course, that your
basic needs are covered, your belief
in yourself and your ability to reverse
negative thinking and manage your
mindset is more important than what’s
in your bank account.
So, starting today, pay attention to
your negative mental chatter. Is it tied
to money at all?
If so, take some time to create a
financial plan that assumes your worst-
case financial scenario. I’ve found that
knowing what that looks like can be a
source of comfort. Even though it’s
scary, it gives you back some control.
You can figure out what you would
need to change if that situation comes
to fruition, rather than be paralyzed by
fear.
4. Your Wellbeing Is Critical When
Times Are Hard
Now more than ever is the time to
MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 9
COVID-19
NATIONAL
COVID-19
CAREERS CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019
focus on your health and wellness.
Successful people know that when
times are so uncertain, you must be
as mentally and physically strong as
possible. Exercising (whatever that
looks like for you), eating healthfully,
and prioritizing sleep is essential. You
won’t be able to rewire your fear or
negative thinking if you’re exhausted.
As an entrepreneur, I know for
certain that my workouts are directly
correlated to every aspect of my
success—especially during hard times.
I’ve always worked out five days a week
and have done a variety of different
workouts, based on the amount of time
and freedom in my life, and my age.
(As a mother of a 2.5-year-old, for
example, my six-hour weekend bike
rides were no longer possible. I got a
Peloton in November, and it’s been a
game-changer, especially in this crisis.)
Hard workouts give you a high that
can sometimes last for hours. I credit
my workouts as being the foundation
of my ability to stay optimistic, strong,
and able to tackle anything that comes
my way.
5. Using This Time To Think Is A
Gift
For many people, working from
home and having limited social activity
(other than the occasional virtual
happy hour) has meant more time to
themselves.
Those with small children or
newfound homeschooling duties
may not have loads of extra solitary
time, but I’m willing to bet you can
find at least a little. When you’re not
commuting or running from one event
to the next, there’s more opportunity to
be alone with your thoughts. This is a
gift, trust me. Successful people know
that the more time you have to just
think, the better.
Take my client Steve, the CEO of a
business that has, like many, been hit
hard by Covid-19. Before the crisis,
Steve had been struggling to find as
much time as he had wanted to think
and be strategic.
Despite his partner contracting
Covid (he recovered, thankfully), he
found that the crisis brought him
exactly what he had been seeking: more
time. More time to read, more time
for creative thinking, and more time
to research his industry. In our last
session, he was inspired, energized,
and full of creative ways he could
maneuver his business through this
time.
Take a look at your schedule. Just
because you might have more space in
it doesn’t mean you need to fill it with
another video chat. Instead, block off
time to get connected to yourself and
your desires.
(These 15 questions can help.) It will
help you generate new ideas and gain
clarity on your life, both professionally
and personally.
- forbes.com
10 MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 www.observer.com.na

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Artists on lockdown: Jyz Yorke

THANDI KAWERAMA the quarantine period that recently consistent posting, I recently hit 1,000
Staff Writer ended. He has been working on his subscribers on YouTube.”
craft despite the uncertain state the He is one of many artists using
Namibian music industry is in. the internet to reach out to fans

T
he State of Emergency has
brought drastic changes to
various industries in our
country, and the music industry is
no exception. Concerts, festivals
and other forms of promotion have
been cancelled in light of the global
pandemic. Entertainers are facing
challenges during the lockdown to
get the exposure they need to reach
their audiences.
Local artist Jyz Yorke recently
chatted with us, over the phone of
course, about what he’s been up to
during the State of Emergency, his
future plans, and how he realized that
creating your own community as an
artist will keep you afloat even in the
face of uncertainty.
“I have been working on my skills,
specifically playing the guitar and
the piano. I even started to learn a
bit of acting. There has not been a
day that I was bored during the state
of emergency.” He said when asked
about how he kept himself busy during
Yorke stressed that now more than
ever you can capture the attention of
an audience you previously couldn’t
reach. He optimistically stated that
time spent at home can be used for
artists to flex their creative muscles.
“If you go online it’s crazy, everyday
on places like Facebook you see
people putting out their work. Now
is the perfect time to showcase
your creativity and not depend on
popularity and concert ticket sales to
prove your strength as an artist.”
He went on further saying that as a
smaller artist, the state of emergency
helped him realize that he can’t sit
back and wait for the industry to go
back to normal. Artists can use the
internet to get their names out in their
communities and beyond boarders.
“Even before I was an artist, I was
an internet kid, now that I make
music I use places like YouTube to
communicate with my fans. I ask them
to send me questions so that I can
communicate with them and through
through alternative means during
the promotion of social distancing.
DJ Dreas recently hosted the
#5minFinesse, an online event
showcasing the talents of various
artists both local and international.
The music industry has long been
dependent on face-to-face interaction
and large gatherings, the state of
emergency is forcing that to change.
Jyz Yorke stated that artists will now
be challenged to expand their methods
beyond what they were used to. “I feel
like the power of the internet is being
neglected in Namibia. People don’t
really make use of streaming platforms
such as Spotify and YouTube, maybe
this will change how we use the
internet.”
The fruits of consistency and
dedication to his craft have begun
to show, Jyz Yorke revealed that
showcasing his talents has open
doors for an opportunity he deems a
‘secret project’ that the public can look
forward to in the near future.
Jyz Yorke

Salt ain’t so bad all the time

Canker sores per day.

R
insing your mouth with
salt water can ease the pain
and help you heal faster.
Stir a teaspoon of salt into a half-
cup or so of water. Swish and spit.
Do this several times a day until
your canker sores don’t bother you
anymore.
Ingrown toenail
This is when the edge of your
toenail curves down and gets trapped
in your skin. It often affects the big
toe, and it can really hurt. To ease
swelling and tenderness, soak your
foot in warm salt water several times
a day. Follow with antibiotic ointment
and a bandage. See your doctor if it
doesn’t improve or gets worse.
Stuffy or runny nose
Salt is a proven way to help you
breathe easier when you’ve got a
cold, the flu, or allergies. A bonus:
It’s affordable, too. Look for over-
the-counter saline nose sprays at the
drugstore. Or use a neti pot to rinse out
your nasal passages with salt water.
Psoriasis and eczema
Mineral-rich salt water is in places
like the Dead Sea in the Middle East
and the Blue Lagoon in Iceland.
Soaking in water like this helps
moisturize the skin and ease redness.
And if you have psoriasis or eczema,
it can relieve the scaly patches and
inflammation. To do this at home, add
Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts to your
tub and soak for about 15 minutes.
Even a cup of plain table salt in your
bath water can ease eczema symptoms.
Heartburn
Baking soda is a type of salt, and
it’s also a natural antacid. Stir about a
teaspoon into a glass of cold water after
a meal. If you get heartburn a lot, don’t
keep treating it yourself. See a doctor
to make sure there’s nothing else going
on. And keep in mind that baking soda
has sodium in it. If you’re on a low-salt
diet, your doctor might want you to try
a different type of antacid instead.
Bug bites or stings
A paste made from baking soda and
a little bit of water can help with any
itching, stinging, or minor swelling.
It also helps with rashes from hives,
angioedema, or from contact with
plants like poison ivy, poison oak, or
poison sumac.
Sore throat
Gargling with salt water -- about 1/2
teaspoon dissolved in a cup of warm
water -- can ease swelling and make a
sore, scratchy throat feel better.
Bad breath
If your breath isn’t the freshest, a
dry mouth and plaque buildup are
probably to blame. Baking soda can
fight microbes in your mouth and
can neutralize bad breath for up to 3
hours. Make a mouthwash with half
a teaspoon of baking soda and a cup
of water. Swish for a minute 3-4 times
Stop cramps
If you exercise or do physical work
in the heat long enough, you can lose
fluid and salt in your sweat. This can
cause sharp pains, especially in your
arms, belly, and calves. To keep this
from happening, you need to take in
fluids and salt. You can drink a sports
drink or eat a salty food with water.
In a pinch, you can make your own
sports drink by mixing a teaspoon of
salt in a quart of water.
Constipation
Feeling a little irregular? Follow the
dosage directions to dissolve some
Epsom salt in a glass of water (it’s
usually 2-6 teaspoons per day). You
can add lemon juice to make it taste
better. This will usually help you go in
1/2 hour to 6 hours.
- www.webmd.com
 @whkobserver
Suzuki reveals facelifted
Swift in Japan
S
hizuoka, Japan - Suzuki’s
Swift has been given a facelift
in its Japanese home market,
with other global markets likely to
follow suit in the coming months.
South Africa’s Swift hatchbacks
are sourced from Maruti Suzuki in
India, which is also likely to announce
a facelift shortly, and sources indicate
Button ‘shocked’
Vettel is leaving Ferrari
MATT MORLIDGE
S
ky F1’s Jenson Button says
it would be “madness”
if Ferrari never made an
attempt to keep Sebastian Vettel for
2021.
Confirmation of Vettel’s impending
Ferrari exit sent shockwaves around
the sport last week - with the German
to be replaced by Carlos Sainz - and
on Monday’s F1 Show Button joined
Martin Brundle, Simon Lazenby and
Craig Slater to discuss the news, and
whose decision it was.
“My understanding is that he was
never made an offer to stay on,” said
Slater - which would be much to the
surprise of the 2009 world champion.
“If he was pushed, for me it’s
madness,” claimed Button. “A four-
time world champion.
“I think he showed his speed last
year. He had a tough moment in the
season when Charles was performing
really well and I think that hurt him a
little bit mentally. But he came back
really strong, and he’s just somebody
you would definitely choose to put in
your car if you had an F1 team.
“There must be more to it. I don’t
know if Ferrari are going down the
that these models could also receive a
mechanical upgrade.
The design changes are subtle, with
the Japanese model receiving a new
grille, with a honeycomb pattern and
new horizontal chrome bar, as well as
a subtly restyled front bumper. The
hatchback is also offered in a range of
new two-tone colour schemes.
route of not wanting two number one
drivers or what but it’s a really strange
choice for me and I’m still shocked
that Sebastian [won’t be] in a red
car.”
Vettel, 33 in July, joined Ferrari in
2015 and while he hasn’t added to his
four titles in red, his 14 wins rank him
third on the Scuderia’s all-time list.
But a number of high-profile errors
in recent years hurt both his title
challenges and his reputation.
“I think they just fell out of love
with each other,” said Brundle.
“Sebastian lost confidence that
they really could go and take
championships in the future and
they lost a bit of confidence in him.
Too much contact, too many silly
incidents. But it does seem bizarre.
“Take away the silly errors and he’s
still got tremendous speed, everything
that is needed to at least equally fight
with [Charles] Leclerc.
“He’s one of the all-time greats in
Formula 1 and we can’t dismiss him.
If we never see him again in Formula
1, I’ll be very disappointed.”
‘Sainz will give Leclerc a run for his
money’
With Vettel leaving, Ferrari will
have their youngest driver line-up
since 1968 next year as young star
Not much has been altered on the
inside, apart from a few subtle trim
changes, but the Japanese spec Swift
does go big on technology, with driver
assistance features such as active
cruise control, 360-degree camera
and rear cross traffic alert being
offered.
There are no mechanical changes
Charles Leclerc is joined by Sainz.
“Obviously they’ve now put all
the chips on Charles Leclerc for the
future, and I don’t think they want
two bulls in the same field,” explained
Brundle. “They think Sainz will fit in
there perfectly as a number one and a
half driver. Maybe he’ll be better than
that.
“We’ve spoken about the changing
of the guard, and the guard has
been changed. The young guys are
calling the shots, fundamentally. Max
[Verstappen] at Red Bull, Charles
at Ferrari and they’re filling in those
spaces around them.”
Brundle continued: “I think Carlos
for the Japanese model, which
soldiers on with the current normally
aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine,
which is also available in hybrid
form, but Autocar India reports that
the Maruti Swift models (which will
inevitably reach SA) are set to receive
a new engine with dual injectors.
The revised motor will be slightly
will handle the pressure there very
well. He’ll fit the mould.
“Would I have taken [Daniel]
Ricciardo instead of Sainz? I might
just have done. Something’s turned
them off about Ricciardo.”
But Button doesn’t necessarily
think Sainz will be a typical ‘number
two’ - while also having his say on F1’s
‘weird’ 2021 driver market in what is
effectively the 2020 off-season.
“If Binotto has gone for Carlos
because he thinks he’s a good pair of
hands but won’t really give Charles a
run for his money, then I think he’s
mistaken,” added the former McLaren
driver.
MONDAY 18 MAY 2020 11
MOTORING
NATIONAL
more powerful than the current
unit, with around 66kW on offer,
according to the report.
Watch this space for more
information on the Indian/South
African spec Swift as it becomes
available.-iol motoring
“I think Carlos is a winner, he’s like
his father. He wants to bring home
a championship. So [Binotto] has
chosen the wrong person if he just
wants a good atmosphere.
“We’ll have to see how it plays
out, but it’s just a weird time at the
moment. We’ve not seen an F1 car in
months and to make driver choices
at a point when drivers haven’t been
driving is really unusual.
“Normally it’s mid-season and you
see how the guys are performing in
that year. Vettel could have been four,
five wins in at this point in time and
then I’m sure the decision would have
been very different.”-SKYSPORTS
12 MONDAY 18 MAY 2020
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PL clubs to return to training from Tuesday
P
remier League clubs will
return to training on Tuesday
after agreeing to allow “small
group” sessions to begin, the first step
on the road to a return to competitive
action.
The league held a conference call for
all 20 clubs on Monday where the move
was given unanimous backing.
It is the first move in the league’s
‘Project Restart’ plans to restart play
in the league, which has not held a
game since March 9 due to the novel
coronavirus pandemic.
Failure to resume the season could
cost the league around 750 million
pounds ($913.80 million) in lost
revenue from broadcasters according
to British media estimates.
Some reports said clubs could lose
out even if the league restarts should
broadcasters demand a 330 million
pounds rebate.
“Premier League Shareholders
today voted unanimously to return to
small group training from tomorrow
(Tuesday) afternoon – the first step
towards restarting the Premier League,
when safe to do so,” the league said in
a statement.
“Step One of the Return to Training
Protocol enables squads to train while
maintaining social distancing. Contact
training is not yet permitted,” it added.
The Government last week opened
the door for the return of elite sport,
but several hurdles remain before the
Premier League can resume behind
closed doors with the aim of completing
the remaining 92 matches of the
season.
Clubs will have been encouraged,
however, by the return of the Bundesliga
at the weekend – the first major soccer
league in the world to resume after the
Ishant Sharma
SINCE 6 MAY 1978
Manchester City
Virus will change the way
bowlers operate - India’s Ishant
T
he world’s top bowlers will
likely have to change the
way they go about getting
swing and seam as a result of the
coronavirus, Indian paceman Ishant
Sharma said on Monday.
Bowlers traditionally get the ball
to move in the air by applying shine
to one side via sweat or saliva, but
new regulatitions being considered
to outlaw the practice will change the
game, he told an online discussion.
There will be “no option” but to play
by new rules when the sport resumes,
said Ishant, who plays for for Delhi
Capitals in the Indian Premier League.
“I feel cricketers will have to get used
to the new normal, whatever that is,”
he said.
Last week the Australian Institute of
Sport issued new guidelines expressly
forbidding rubbing spit or sweat into
the ball’s surface as a condition for
competitive cricket to resume.
That prompted former Australia
captain Ian Chappell to suggest some
form of ball-tampering be allowed.
“With cricket on hold, this is the
ideal time to conduct the exercise,”
Chappell said.
“Using saliva and perspiration
are now seen as a health hazard, so
bowlers require something to replace
the traditional methods of shining
the ball.” All international cricket –
including cash-rich tournaments such
as the IPL – has been halted by the
coronavirus, with no clear timetable
for a resumption.
India has extended a nationwide
coronavirus lockdown until May 31,
but new rules starting on Monday
allow stadiums to host events without
spectators.
The Board of Control for Cricket
in India said it “will not rush into any
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lockdown.
Project Restart was originally looking
at a June 12 resumption date but should
the clubs agree and, if there is no rise in
infections in the country, a return date
of June 19 or June 26 appears the most
likely.
However, the prospect of clubs
playing their remaining matches at
neutral venues has receded with more
than half speaking out against such a
proposal.
Medical protocols
The league said the decision to
return to ‘group training’ had been
taken in consultation with players,
managers, Premier League club
doctors, independent experts and the
Government.
“Strict medical protocols of the
highest standard will ensure everyone
returns to training in the safest
environment possible,” it added.
“The health and wellbeing of all
participants is the Premier League’s
priority, and the safe return to training
is a step-by-step process.
“Full consultation will now continue
with players, managers, clubs, the PFA
(Professional Footballers’ Association)
and LMA (League Managers
Association) as protocols for full-
contact training are developed,” the
statement concluded.
Safety measures are expected to
include tents where temperature
checks will be conducted, strict hygiene
criteria, no canteens and no showers. A
maximum of five players will be allowed
per pitch with tackling forbidden.
Players will be tested twice a week
and are being asked to provide written
approval that they have received and
understood the club’s Covid-19 policy.
- supersport.com
decision” on the IPL and will wait
before organising training camps for
national players.
Ishant has been in and out of
the Indian team due to injuries and
inconsistent performances since his
debut in 2007, but he hit form before
the virus struck.
The lanky bowler, who has claimed
412 wickets in 97 tests and 80 in one-
day internationals, credits his 2018
season with English County side Sussex
as the reason for his improvement.
“People keep saying Ishant 2.0,
which makes it sound like I am a robot.
But the phase before 2017 was one
when the pressure to perform was a
lot,” he said.
“It gave me sleepless nights, and I
hardly found any joy in my bowling.
My county stint with Sussex was what
changed everything.”
- supersport.com