News Blog

Early-career journalists and researchers in Namibia are invited to apply for The Green Screen Fellowship. We are now receiving applications for a three-month Fellowship from early-career journalists and researchers who want to work at the intersection of environment, energy, and extractives.The Eco Dialogue Collective Project brings together research, law, and journalism to strengthen transparency and accountability in Namibia’s green economy and extractive industries. Fellows gain hands-on experience in investigative work, data-driven storytelling, and collaborative content development, while working alongside researchers, legal practitioners, and civil society actors advancing Namibia’s sustainable future.   Thematic Focus Areas: Green Hydrogen & Renewable EnergyOil & Gas SectorCross-cutting issues: Climate change, governance, community impacts, and just transition Eligibility is open to journalists and researchers focusing on: green...

The Eco Dialogue Collective project will host a dialogue event titled “Namibia & the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI)” on Thursday, 5 February 2026, from 14h00 to 17h00 at the Hilton Hotel, Windhoek. The dialogue event aims to raise awareness of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) and explore how Namibia could benefit from joining the global transparency standard for the extractives sector, inclusive of mining, oil and gas. The Eco Dialogue Collective (EDC) is a joint initiative of the IPPR, Legal Assistance Centre, Namibia Media Trust, and DW Akademie in partnership with the European Union. The EDC aims to create a structured space for dialogue on governance, transparency and accountability in Namibia’s natural resource sectors. The dialogue comes at a...

(Photo from “Namibia’s ‘concealed’ human trafficking crisis”, The Patriot, 27 October 2017) Walk for Freedom website: www.a21.org/content/walk-for-freedom-2018-home/gp2dhc

ABOUT THE FUNDING ORGANISATION United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking in Persons (UNVTF) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010 and is managed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The Fund exists to provide direct, rights-based assistance to victims and survivors of trafficking in persons worldwide. Its core mandate is to ensure that victims receive protection, recovery support, and access to justice, regardless of their country of origin or legal status. UNVTF funding typically supports: Safe shelter and accommodation • Medical and psychological care • Legal assistance and access to justice • Social services and case management • Education, vocational training, and livelihood support • Reintegration and empowerment programmes A strong...

The European Parliament's Sakharov Fellowship offers up to 14 human rights defenders selected from non-EU countries the opportunity to follow a two-week intensive training in Brussels and at another location in an EU Member State. The empowering programme for human rights defenders has been organised annually since 2016 further to an initiative taken by the Sakharov Prize Community at the 25th Anniversary Conference of the Sakharov Prize. Since 2016, this programme has been organised annually to empower human rights defenders through: 🌍 Insight into EU & international human rights mechanisms 💬 Advocacy and communication training 🛠️ Tools for security and safety, resilience, disinformation and documentation 🤝 Meeting with high-level EU stakeholders 🛡️ Joining the Sakharov Community of human rights defenders Eligibility: Proven track...

@undpnamibia, with support from the @euinnam, invites #CSOs, #NGOs & community orgs to apply for small grants under the Good Governance & Anti-Corruption project. 📅 Apply now: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfzJCpAoC7ScdKuzKnOArt-OsV5humzp17HJOaHD3jqnH6Lhw/viewform?fbzx=2933844384488271601 #GoodGovernance #AntiCorruption #CivicEngagement

The Office of the Auditor General in Windhoek

📣 Have Your Say: Help Strengthen Public Accountability The Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) has launched its External Stakeholder Survey — a crucial tool to measure how effectively it’s fulfilling its public audit mandate. CSOs and their teams are invited to take part. 🗓️ DEADLINE EXTENDED: 31 December 2025 📌 Why it matters: Your feedback helps improve transparency, audit effectiveness, and public understanding of the OAG’s role. 👉 If you work for a CSO or NGO, please complete the survey here (choose Professional Industry Experts Satisfaction Survey): 🔗 https://forms.gle/H5N5bWeN4tdkJt7x6 👥 You can also share this link with others in your community as citizens: 🔗 https://forms.gle/AnP5bjLeu4CUK8777 Let’s ensure civil society’s voice is heard in shaping public oversight systems. #PublicAccountability #CivicParticipation #OAGSurveyNamibia #CSOVoice

Urgent Meeting starting now

Dear land rights activists, CSOs, traditional authorities, academics & concerned citizens: Join the Civil Society Working Group on Land Reform (CSO-WGLR) this Friday, 7 November 2025 | 08:30–10:30 for a critical virtual discussion on the Land Bill now before Parliament. 🗣️ Why now? The Land Bill — over a decade in the making — is being rushed through Parliament before the elections. Civil society is calling for deeper public engagement via the relevant Standing Committee. 📌 Agenda: Advocacy update & next stepsConsolidating civil society inputsFuture of CSO-WGLRUrban land issues 📨 To join the meeting, please RSVP via SMS or WhatsApp to: Yolande: 081 680 3210 Josephine: 081 447 1410 Claudina: 081 488 5639 📄 For background, see the CSO appeal to...

- Simply click on this link to join in-person or via ZOOM The Commonwealth Secretariat, through its Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda for Trade and Investment (CCA), is rolling out a flagship initiative: National Agricultural Data Infrastructure (NAgDI). This initiative aims to help member states build interoperable, national shared spaces for agricultural data, not to replace existing databases, but to integrate them in ways that strengthen utility, transparency, and national ownership. A policy guide for NAgDI was launched in 2025, developed in collaboration with experts and member countries. It was validated via a global webinar attended by over 60 specialists, providing normative direction for how countries can design their agricultural DPI (Digital Public Infrastructure) systems.  What is happening on 23 October 2025 (Launch Event...

“Planting today for tomorrow’s shade; Namibia marks Arbor Day 2025 with a call to protect and grow our green heritage.”

On 11 October 2025, Namibia will celebrate Arbor Day alongside the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations, under the theme “Forests and Food.” The celebration will take place at Michelle McLean Primary School, Otjomuise 3, bringing together learners, schools, youth clubs, community groups, government, UN partners, and the private sector. Participants will walk, run, and cycle the Otjomuise green corridor to highlight the role of trees in sustaining biodiversity, strengthening food security, and building climate-resilient communities. Event highlights: Cycle (20 km): starts 06:00Run (10 km): starts 06:30Walk (5 km): starts 07:00Main Ceremony: 08:30–13:00 This year’s theme emphasizes how forests support food systems, reminding us that planting and protecting trees is central to urban greening, environmental education, and sustainable development. Arbor Day...

Are you a young person passionate about climate change and making a difference in your community? Here is your chance! The Youth Climate Change Conference 2025 will bring together inspiring young people from across Namibia to share ideas, learn, and take action toward building climate-resilient communities. This two-day event will take place in Ondangwa, Namibia from 4–5 November 2025, and will provide a platform for youth voices to shape the future of climate action in our country. What’s in it for you? Fully funded opportunity: Travel and accommodation costs will be covered for all selected participants.Networking: Connect with peers, experts, and organisations committed to climate justice.Skills building: Learn strategies for advocacy, community mobilisation, and sustainable innovation. Eligibility Must be between 18–35...

New open grants call

The Commonwealth Foundation has launched its 2025–26 annual grants call, presenting an important funding opportunity for civil society organisations across the Commonwealth, including Namibia. Below are the key details that local CSOs should consider: What the Grants Support Strengthening civic voice and participationInnovative approaches to governance and accountabilityProjects that strengthen networks and civil society coalitionsCapacity building, dialogues, and small-scale pilot programmes Who Can Apply Registered, legally constituted CSOs from Commonwealth countriesOrganisations with experience or partnerships in policy, governance, advocacy, or community mobilisationProjects must be local or regional with demonstrable potential for scalability and impact Grant Size & Duration Grants typically range from USD 15,000 to USD 50,000 (or equivalent in local currency)Projects usually run 12 to 24 monthsCo-funding or matching funding...

  Upcoming Event: State of the Namibian Economy - Presentation by Economist Robin Sherbourne We are pleased to invite you to this highly-anticipated presentation. The Institute for Public Policy Research in partnership with the Economic Association of Namibia and the Hans Seidel Foundation, are pleased to present Robin Sherbourne, renowned Namibian economist and author of the Guide to the Namibian Economy, in a talk on the State of the Namibian Economy. About Robin Sherbourne Robin Sherbourne has spent over three decades advancing economic understanding in Namibia. He began his journey as the first ODI Fellow in Namibia in 1991, serving as a researcher at the Namibian Economic Policy Research Unit and as an economic advisor in the National Planning Commission. Later,...

NamibiaVotes2024

Dear colleagues, following the stakeholder engagement session with the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) yesterday, we’d like to share some key information about the elections. It is encouraged to pass this along in your networks.

2024 Development Partners Forum

You Are Invited!
The National Planning Commission [NPC] warmly invites you to the 2024 Development Partners Forum. This year’s forum will foster dialogue and collaboration toward an integrated strategy to address critical development challenges.

Date: 5-6 December 2024
Venue: TBC (In-person and online attendance options available)
Theme: Integrated Approach to End Poverty and Hunger

CIVIC BEAT V3I2

Dear colleagues, We’re pleased to share the August-September 2024 edition of the CIVIC BEAT Newsletter: https://bit.ly/civicbeatv3i2 This edition highlights a training session on improving governance in welfare organisations, an update on the draft GRN-CSPE policy and discussions on the Universal Basic Income Grant (U-BIG). It also covers a workshop on Green Hydrogen development, its community impact and the recognition of Jim Kastelic with World Scouting’s highest award. Lastly, we spotlight efforts to combat food insecurity and malnutrition by the Nutrition and Food Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN) and celebrate the KAYEC Youth Development (KYD) programme’s 20 years of empowering Namibian youth. Upcoming events and opportunities are towards the end of the Newsletter and full articles are available on the CIVIC +264 website: www.civic264.org.na ...

'The Namibian House: Building Inclusive Spaces for LGBTQIA+ Persons'

On 12 October, the Namibia Institute for Democracy (NID) launched the publication, 'The Namibian House: Building Inclusive Spaces for LGBTQIA+ Persons'. The publication looks at the history, legal issues, social factors and media representation that affect LGBTQIA+ rights in Namibia and Africa.

KAYEC

KAYEC, 27 September 2024 | On the 27th of September, KAYEC’s Youth Development (KYD) programme marked its 20th anniversary. Since its inception in 2004, the KYD Program has been committed to empowering Namibia’s youth by providing educational and psychosocial support, along with knowledge about HIV prevention. After two decades of addressing the needs of vulnerable children and adolescents aged 10 to 18, we are proud to commemorate this significant milestone.

Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN)

BY: BEN SCHERNICK, 2 October 2024 | Rising malnutrition cases and deaths in Namibia, especially among children under the age of five, have been reported in the news for a few years now, with poverty, growing inequalities, and extreme droughts making the situation even worse. By September 2024, over 75% of Namibian’s were projected to be to some degree food insecure (www.nafsan.org/facts-and-figures). Given the gravity of the situation, only multi-sectoral and genuinely collaborative efforts by various stakeholders, together with innovative and sustainable (long-term thinking) approaches can make a real difference.

Namibian Scout Leader Receives Bronze Wolf Award

BY: RODNEY CLOETE, 19 September 2024 | The Bronze Wolf Award, World Scouting’s highest honour, was bestowed on Tsumeb Scout leader James “Jim” Kastelic during the recently held 43rd World Scout Conference in Cairo, Egypt.The Bronze Wolf Award, World Scouting’s highest honour, was bestowed on Tsumeb Scout leader James “Jim” Kastelic during the recently held 43rd World Scout Conference in Cairo, Egypt.

Workshop on Shared Energy Futures

BY: HANS-CHRISTIAN MAHNKE, 19 September 2024 | From 28 to 30 August 2024, over 40 Namibian and South African community activists and CSOs gathered in Windhoek to learn more about Green Hydrogen under the workshop theme “Shared Energy Futures: Civil society and community voices on Green Hydrogen”. The workshop took place in Windhoek and was organised by the Namibia Development Trust, Economic and Social Justice Trust and Frack Free Namibia, with support from the Heinrich Boell Foundation, Cape Town Office. The participants came from areas affected by Green Hydrogen developments in Namibia and South Africa. Namibian participants included Civic+264, LAC, IPPR, NDT, ESJT, CCN, MUN, TUCNA, FrackFree Namibia, Rights Not Rescue Trust, various conservancy representatives, the Erongo Regional Conservancy Association, Hanganeni...

BIG Coalition Meets with the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare

BY: RINAANI MUSUTUA & BEN SCHERNICK, 4 October 2024 | Following nationwide protests, the last one taking place on Heroes Day, 26th August 2024, petitions for a Universal/Unconditional Basic Income Grant (U-BIG) were handed to representatives of the Namibian government. A delegation from the BIG Coalition had this week (4 Sept.’24) met with the Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare and high-ranking officials from her Ministry to discuss the need for, benefits of, and ways towards implementing such Universal Basic Income in Namibia. The discussions were fruitful, and the Ministry gave an update on the background and status quo of current social protection mechanisms, as well as on identified challenges towards a truly Universal Basic Income Grant from...

Update on the draft GRN-CSPE Policy

BY: ESTER /NANUS & CHRISTINE LEISER, 30 September 2024 | Between 2022 and April 2024, the Civic Organisations Partnerships Policy (GRN-COPP) underwent a comprehensive review involving stakeholder consultations. Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) expressed strong opposition to the voluntary registration requirement with the government, perceiving it as a threat to their autonomy—a concern reminiscent of the findings from the 2005 GRN-CSO Policy Review.

MoHSS 19th INTEREST Conference Site Visit Meeting with Local CSOs

Dear CSO Health Sector Colleagues, The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) informed us of a site visit by the organisers of the 19th International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis and Prevention Research in Resource-Limited Settings (INTEREST). Namibia has been nominated to host the INTEREST Conference from 13-16 May 2025.The organisers' site visit is taking place in Namibia from 8-12 October 2024.The hybrid meeting with local civil society organisations (CSOs) is scheduled for 10 October 2024 at 11 am. The hybrid preparatory meeting with local CSOs is scheduled for Thursday, 10 October, from 11:00 to 12:00. If you or your organisation haven't received a direct invitation and would like to participate, please let us know by tomorrow afternoon to share your...

Tracy Tafirenyika, 2 October | The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has urged the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to investigate not only civil society and churches but also the funding of political parties and the use of lawyers’ trust funds to channel proceeds of corruption.

Please note that in the Friday, 27 September edition of the Namibia Newspaper, the Financial Intelligence Centre publicised the below call to all financial service providers, donors and persons dealing with non-profit organisations.  

NPO Level-Up Training Introduction Session

On Monday, 23 September 2024, the ‘NPO Level Up Training: Introduction Session’ took place at the House of Democracy in Windhoek. The session was hosted by the Lithon Foundation and the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264), with support from the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) and the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF). The training was designed to help welfare organisations (WOs)* improve their governance by providing them with useful resources and knowledge.

CIVIC BEAT Newsletter

Dear colleagues, We’re preparing the next edition of our CIVIC BEAT Newsletter (September) and we’re hoping to include more updates around the work of CSOs. If your organisation has any news, events or opportunities (calls for proposals, funding, training, vacancies etc.) since August or any upcoming ones from September onwards, please share them with us. You can also send articles, write-ups, pictures (with captions) or any other relevant content. Kindly share them with us by 27 September for consideration on info@civic264.org.na We look forward to featuring your work! Best regards,CIVIC +264 Teaminfo@civic264.org.na You'll be able to view the previous edition here: https://www.civic264.org.na/component/acym/archive/77-civic-beat-namibian-civil-society-news-updates?userid=106-YPt7eT30gZQOOf&tmpl=component

Call for Civil Society Input on National Budget Priorities

Following the consultative meeting that took place with the Ministry of Finance and the National Planning Commission on July 15 with regards to the budget, the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) would like to invite further interventions or recommendations.

On January 21, 2021, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) released the Report of the Commission of Inquiry into Claims of Ancestral Land Rights and Restitution to the public.

CIVIC BEAT V‍olume 3 Issue 1

Dear Esteemed Stakeholder,

Our latest newsletter is now available. You can read about the news and updates on our work from January to July 2024 by clicking on the following link: https://bit.ly/civicbeatv3i1

INVITATION to a Stakeholders Consultation

UPDATE:  Cancellation of Stakeholders Consultation on the Draft Amendments to Public Procurement Regulations and the Framework Agreement and Pooled Procurement Regulation

OAG CSO Information Session - 16 July

Dear colleagues, on 16 July, the Office of the Auditor-General will be hosting an information session for civil society organisations (CSOs) focusing on understanding their role and mandate. During the session, they will outline their role, mandate and work. They will also seek guidance on identifying CSOs with a strategic interest in their work,  for future collaboration.

African Anti-Corruption Day

African Anti-Corruption Day is celebrated annually on 11 July. The theme this year is “Effective Whistleblowers Protection Mechanism: A Critical Tool in the Fight Against Corruption".

MFPE Mid-Term Budget Review Consultations with CSOs

Dear civil society activist,

On behalf of the IPPR and CIVIC +264, we would like to invite you to a budget consultation meeting with the Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises to take place on the afternoon of Monday 15 July. Please find further details in the attached invitation letter.

Credible CSOs’ roles in the policy process of Namibia: Participatory budgeting

Last week, from 3 to 5 July 2024, the Enhancing Participatory Democracy Partnership Programme (EPDN)* conducted a three-day training on participatory budgeting at Thuringer Hof in Windhoek. The training brought together representatives from civil society umbrella organisations, aiming to enhance their capacity to engage in Namibia's national budget process.

Invitation: Data Deficits undermine governance & oversight

Join the IPPR on Wednesday, 29 May at 10:00 at the House of Democracy for the launch of their latest Procurement Tracker Bulletin on Data Deficits undermine governance & oversights. RSVP to info@ippr.org.na

Message from FROM EPDN team regarding an Invitation to online Participation in the Validation workshop of the draft GRN-CSO Partnership and Engagement Policy  29th-30th May 2024

On the 29th-30th May 2024, the National Planning Commission (NPC) will be hosting a two-day workshop. This workshop is dedicated to the validation of the draft GRN-CSO Partnership and Engagement Policy 

Stakeholder Consultation & Comments on Draft Bill

The Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises has extended an invitation to civil society organisations (CSOs) to a stakeholder consultation on the draft Public Finance Management (PFM) Bill on 26 April 2024. The Ministry has also requested written comments by 31 March on the draft PFM Bill which is aimed at replacing the State Finance Act, 1991 (Act No. 31 of 1991).

Regional & Constituency Consultations of NDP6

The National Planning Commission (NPC) embarks on the regional and constituency consultations of the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP) under the theme "Fostering Recovery, Inclusiveness, and Resilience for Quality and Sustainable Development."

4 February 2024 | The Namibia Media Trust (NMT) expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of President Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia. In this sombre moment, it is essential to reflect on his profound commitment to press freedom, a cornerstone of his legacy that has positively shaped the media landscape in Namibia.

CIVIC BEAT - V‍olume 2 Issue 2 ~ December 2023

Dear Esteemed Stakeholder, the Civil Society Inofrmation Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) wishes you the best for the festive season and a joyous new year! Kindly take note that the CIVIC +264 office will be closed from 22 December 2023 to 5 January 2024. We will re-open again on 8 January 2024. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday.

Call for Inputs – ICCPR

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and Centre for Civil and Political Rights (CCPR) invites Namibian civil society representatives to contribute to a report that will be submitted to the UN Human Rights Committee for discussion when Namibia appears before the committee in March 2024.

Guide to Setting Up CSOs

Dear Partner / Stakeholder,

You are invited to attend our upcoming publication launch Channels for Change: A Guide to Setting Up Civil Society Organisations in Namibia written by Dianne Hubbard for the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264).

IPPR ATI for CSOs Focus Group Discussion

INVITATION | The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) seeks to develop a toolkit to help civil society actors to navigate access to information systems and processes that will be rolled out with the implementation of the Access to Information Act of 2022.

FIC Consultation Session with NPOs - 22 September 2023

Please take note that the FIC will be hosting a Consultation Session tomorrow, 22 September from 09:00 to 12:00 at the Hilton Hotel Windhoek. This session is open to both CSOs/NPOs and Churches/FBOs and will serve as a feedback session on the questions, comments and concerns from the briefing meeting earlier this week. Mr Kristian Hamutenya, Deputy Director: Compliance Supervision & Strategic Analysis Division, will be in attendance.

FIC on NPO Registration & Filing of Annual Returns

Reference is made to the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) notice CALLING ON ALL NON-PROFIT ORGANISATIONS: REGISTRATION DEADLINE WITH THE FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE CENTRE AND FILING ANNUAL RETURNS. Faith-based organisations (FBOs), religious bodies and NPOs involved in charitable services are all required to register with the FIC no later than 29 September 2023: https://www.civic264.org.na/news/general-news/fic-calling-on-all-non-profit-organisations-registration-deadline-with-the-financial-intelligence-centre-and-filing-annual-returns-29-september-2023

Financial Inteligence Centre

1. INTRODUCTION 
   The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) is tasked with the coordination of Namibia's Anti-Money Laundering, Combatting the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation (AMU/CFI/CPF) activities. In furtherance of this mandate, the FIC supervises Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs), amongst other sectors, as per the Financial Intelligence Act, 2012.

#YouthQuakeNam23

The Namibia Media Trust (NMT) hosted its fifth annual YouthQuake conference on 12 August 2023, along the sidelines of International Youth Day in Windhoek. The conference provided a dynamic platform for young Namibians to explore the intersection of digital inclusion and democratic engagement under the theme "Digital Inclusion for Youth Democratic Participation".

CIVIC BEAT Volume 2 Issue 1

Dear Civil Society Colleagues and Esteemed Stakeholders,

We are thrilled to present the latest edition of CIVIC BEAT, our electronic newsletter covering the period from May to July 2023. Stay informed and engaged by accessing the newsletter through this convenient link: https://www.civic264.org.na/component/acym/archive/74-civic-beat-may-to-july-2023-newsletter?

'I support equal rights for ALL'

You are invited to take a stand in our campaign 'I support equal rights for ALL: Taking a stand of love for all in the Namibian family'. Many of us are feeling powerless as the supremacy of our constitution is being torn apart by politicians in the name of misinformation about our LGBT brothers and sisters.

Information Sharing & Networking Session in Windhoek, KHOMAS Region

On 31 May 2023, the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) hosted an information sharing and networking session for civil society organisations (CSOs) in Windhoek with the support of the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF). The event aimed to provide an opportunity for local CSOs to interact and for CIVIC +264 to share information on the latest developments impacting CSOs at a national level. The event also served as an opportunity to introduce CIVIC +264 and its new coordinator, Mrs Melanie Markus, who takes over from Ms Carola Engelbrecht. 

CIVIC +264 Information Session in Rundu

On 25 July 2023, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) active in and around Rundu were brought together for an Information Sharing and Networking Session organised by the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) with the support of the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF). The event took place at the Kavango River Lodge and aimed to foster collaboration, information-sharing, and networking among CSOs while introducing them to the services provided by CIVIC +264.

100 CSOs in defence of Civic Space in Angola

5 July 2023 | 100 civil society organizations worldwide signed a statement today against the “Estatuto das Organizações Não-Governamentais” (Status of non-governmental organisations), a new draft law regulating civil society in Angola presented by the government of João Lourenço.

CIVIC +264 Information Session in Otjiwarongo

KALEB NGHISHIDIVALI, OTJI FM | CIVIC +264 hosted an information-sharing and networking event for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Otjiwarongo yesterday [20 June 2023], with the help of the Hanns Seidel Foundation Namibia (HSF). The gathering allowed local CSOs to engage while also allowing CIVIC +264 to exchange information on the most recent events affecting CSOs on a national level.

EPDN - Outcome of the GRN-COPP Review

The outcome of the Government of the Republic of Namibia - Civic Organisations Partnership Policy (GRN-COPP) review is now available - in the form of a report. 

LAC Press Release on President Hage Geingob warning locals

On 31 May 2023, the Legal Assistance Centre Namibia (LAC) issued a press release expressing deep concern over the statement by President Hage Geingob in The Namibian of 29 May 2023 warning locals not to interfere in the green hydrogen project being developed in Tsau//Khaeb National Park.

SDFN & NHAG Annual Report 2021/2022

To date, the Nambia Housing Action Group (NHAG)’s contributions have resulted in many accomplishments, tangible and intangible. Until June 2022, the Shack Dwellers Federation with the technical support of NHAG and funding through the Twahangana fund, have built a total of 7,244 houses for poor and low-income people in Namibia.

Namibia's Green Hydrogen Opportunity

On Wednesday, 5 April 2023, Namibian civil society representatives engaged the Special Envoy for German- Namibian climate & energy relations, Mr Rainer Baake, and the Namibian Presidential Economic Advisor, Mr James Mnyupe on Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Opportunity.

Request for Inputs on the Draft NM&E and Implemation Plan

The National Planning Commission (NPC) is requesting inputs from all stakeholders in Civil Society on the Draft National Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Policy and the Implementation Plan. The deadline to submit inputs is 31 March 2023.

World NGO Day 2023

Today, 27 February 2023, Namibian civil society organisations (CSOs) kicked off the World NGO Day Celebrations in Namibia with a media conference at the House of Democracy, Windhoek. There are two remaining events scheduled during the week to engage non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or CSOs on policy through a workshop and to celebrate the work of CSOs at a networking braai which is open to the public. See the outline of events below: 

LAC Input on Draft Civic Organisations Partnership Policy

LEGAL ASSISTANCE CENTRE | While these general objectives [of the Government of the Republic of Namibia Civic Organisations (GRN-CO) Partnership Policy] are positive in themselves, a worrying factor is the theme of Government involvement in mobilising, shaping, and influencing civil society – which is, by definition, separate from Government.

03 February 2023: Hon. Emma Kantema-Gaomas, Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service inaugurated the Taskforce Committee on the Implementation of the recommendations in the APRM Targeted Review Report on Youth Unemployment in the Republic of Namibia.

CIVIC +264 Holidays 2022

The Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year. The CIVIC +264 office will close on 19 December 2022 and reopen on 9 January 2023.

Fishrot – A Call For Restorative Justice: Namibian & Global Civil Society Urge Action

On 12 November 2022, the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) Namibia and Transparency International Iceland issued a joint media release supported by over 20 Namibian civil society organisations (CSOs) and international anti-corruption activists on the Fishrot scandal. The joint media release calls for restorative justice, specifically for:

The Institute for Public Policy Research invites you to the launch of: Civil Society Organisation Sustainability index

Join the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) Namibia for the launch of the Civil Society Organisation Sustainability Index on 29 November 2022 at 10:00 at the House of Democracy, Windhoek. The CSO Sustainability Index – covers issues facing Namibian civil society across seven dimensions: Legal Environment, Organisational Capacity, Financial Viability, Advocacy, Service Provision, Sectoral Infrastructure, and Public Image.

AARON BUCKLEY | Namibia is a nation teeming with opportunities. Everywhere  you look, people are hungry for success.

A country built on free market principles, with a people questing for equal economic participation in its development. Namibia has many commonly known successes; it re mains one of the only countries in the world with a robust environmental policy enshrined in its constitution combined with a strong governmental investment that could lead to a direct betterment for all citizens.

Active civil society organisations (CSOs) are invited to join the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) Namibia and the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) for a consultative meeting with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on the proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund Draft Bill. This meeting will take place on Tuesday, 1 November 2022, at 14:30 at the House of Democracy, 70-72 Dr Frans Indongo Street.

The Windhoek Municipal Council has commissioned a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the City of Windhoek. The Consultant on behalf of the Municipality is inviting interested and affected parties (IAPs) to public meetings scheduled between 31 October to 10 November 2022 - for sharing the findings in the Baseline Status Quo Report (BSQR) and for providing further input in the identification of important environmental, social and economic issues regarding the Municipality into the SEA process.

The draft Namibian Digital Rights Declaration, an initiative of the ACTION Namibia Coalition, presents an opportunity for Namibians to articulate their aspirations on telecommunications and internet governance in Namibia.

In September, the National Planning Commission (NPC) issued a public notice regarding the review of the 2005 Government of the Republic of Namibia Civic Organisations (GRN-CO) Partnership Policy. Civic organisations are invited to participate in regional workshops, scheduled between 10 and 24 October 2022. 

Join the Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) on 17, 24 and 31 October 2022 from 14h00 to 17h00 at the House of Democracy for Advocacy Advice for Civil Society. Please RSVP to Celine at 061-223356 or cengelbrecht@lac.org.na

Join the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) and Global Partners Digital on Wednesday, 31 August 2022 at 10:00 for a Webinar on Mandatory SIM Card registration and data retention under part 6 of the Communications Act of 2009: Unpacking threats to media freedom in Namibia.

On Monday, 22 August 2022, the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) hosted a Workshop on the Government of the Republic of Namibia Civic Organisations Partnership Policy  (GRN-COPP) and related matters. 

In June the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) conducted information sharing and networking sessions in Rehoboth and Mariental and hosted a briefing session on the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) process in Namibia. Read more about CIVIC +264 and its work in our first newsletter by clicking on the following link: https://bit.ly/civicbeatjune

On 22 July 2022, the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) and the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) hosted a consultative meeting with the Minister of Finance, Hon. Iipumbu Shiimi, regarding priorities for 2022/23 Mid-Year Budget Review. 

//KHARAS REGION INFORMATION SESSIONS | On 14 & 15 July 2022, the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) hosted information sharing and networking sessions in Keetmanshoop and Lüderitz respectively. The sessions provided an opportunity for CIVIC +264 to introduce itself, its website and its FREE services to Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) which are active in and around Keetmanshoop and Lüderitz.

NATIONAL BUDGET | On Wednesday, 6 July 2022, the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) and the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) hosted a training for civil society on the national budget process - with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and National Planning Commission (NPC) staff.  The training was aimed at enabling civil society activists to better understand the national budget process. 

Join the Namibian Albinism Association Trust (NAAT) for a peaceful demonstration to stop discrimination killings and selling of body parts on 29 June 2022 at 08:00 from Single Quarters (Open Market) to the Katutura Magistrate Court.

APRM | On Monday, 27 June 2022, the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) hosted a briefing session on the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) process in Namibia focusing on the role of civil society. According to the APRM’s documents, civil society is supposed to play a pivotal role in the self-assessment process.

HARDAP REGION INFORMATION SESSIONS | On 20 & 21 June 2022 the Civil Society Information Centre Namibia (CIVIC +264) hosted information sharing and networking sessions in Rehoboth and Mariental respectively. The sessions provided an opportunity for CIVIC +264 to introduce itself, its website and its FREE services to Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) which are active in and around Rehoboth and Mariental.

Donate clothes, food and blankets for the less privileged in Rehoboth. Contact the Hardap Region Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Network team - Mrs Jeanne on +264 81 216 2863 or Mrs Maryna on +264 81 318 9859 - for deliveries.

The Environmental Compliance Consultancy (ECC) has issued a notice and invitation to stakeholders and potentially affected parties of an environmental assessment and public meeting scheduled for 18 May 2022 at 18:30 at the Namibia Scientific Society. This is regarding the proposed Ongombo Copper Project for underground mining activities within EPL 5772, Khomas Region, Windhoek.

Today, 17 May 2022, the ACTION Coalition issued a press statement expressing its concern about the use of excessive force by the Police in response to the public protest near China Town in Windhoek on Friday, 13 May 2022.

On 26 April 2022, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR) issued a press release stating that they have been receiving continuous complaints suggesting corruption, fraud and misconduct by officials, possible beneficiaries and other parties in relation to land acquisition, allotment and procurement.

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) recently released their latest Citizen's Guide to the National Budget FY2022/23 booklet. The 31-page booklet is available in softcopy on their website and as a hardcopy insert in today's, 8 April 2022, Namibian newspaper.

The Nambia Housing Action Group (NHAG) & Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) recently released their annual report for 2020/2021. Until June 2021 SDFN/NHAG have built an overall of 6,865 brick houses, each of them with its own toilet and water connection.

On 30 March 2022, the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) hosted a Housing Symposium themed "Towards an Affordable Housing Ecosystem in Namibia". The EAN is a Think Tank conducting research and providing public policy advisory services. 

On 31 March 2022, the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare (MGEPESW) officially launched the Social Protection Policy 2021-2030. The Social Protection Policy is anchored on Article 95 of Namibia’s Constitution, which compels the Government to actively promote equal opportunity and the well-being of all citizens.

The EU has a new Call for Proposals for CSOs in Namibia. Organisations can apply alone or in/as a coalition of CSOs. There will be an Information Session on 18 March 2022, to be organised by the EU Delegation.

The Combating of Domestic Violence Amendment Bill was introduced in Parliament on 24 February 2022, and despite the intense lobbying that has already taken place, it fails to address the exclusion of same-sex couples from the coverage of the law.

Join the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) Namibia and Global Partners Digital for the launch of the CSOs Forum on mainstreaming human rights in cybercrime law and policy-making. The launch will take place online via Zoom and at the House of Democracy on Thursday, 24 February 2022 at 10:00. To confirm your participation for this event, kindly send an email to Ndeshi Fikameni at info@ippr.org.na.

Join the Namibia Institute for Democracy (NID) on Thursday, 24 February 2022 at 15:00 for A CALL TO ACTION! public discussion forum on 1.6 MILLION NAMIBIANS LIVING IN POVERTY.  The public discussion will take place at the Katutura Community Arts Centre. For more information / to RSVP kindly email consultant@nid.org.na or call +264 81 826 2090.

The meeting of the Civil Society Organisations Working Group on Land Reform (CSO-WGLR) has been re-scheduled to Friday, 18 February 2022. 

In February 2022, the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat published the Namibia Review Report: Key Highlights. The Report commends Namibia for its full implementation in the APRM good governance programme.

On 18 January 2022, in an NBC Good Morning Namibia interview, the Namibia Institute for Democracy's (NID) Programme Director, Mr Panduleni Nghipandulwa, commented on the World Bank report that cited Namibia as one of the most unequal countries in the world. According to the World Bank report, 1.6 million Namibians live in poverty.

The Legal Assistance Centre's (LAC's) Gender Research & Advocacy Project (GR&AP) team recently shared an illustrated overview of their 2021 activities, along with an updated GR&AP Publications Catalogue.

Joseph Ndondi is the founder and current executive director of Social Enabled Education (SEE) Namibia, through the organisation he aims to actively encourage Africans to be involved in political decision making and hold leaders accountable.

On Tuesday, 8 February 2022, TH!NK Namibia's ‘Promoting Sustainable Forest Management in the Kavango-Zambezi-Region in Namibia’ (NSFM) Project will be launching their Educational Material. The Launch will take place at the House of Democracy, 70-72 Dr Frans Indongo Street, Windhoek at 11:00.

This short paper was prepared by the IPPR for the CSO Sustainability Index (2020) – covering issues facing Namibian civil society across seven dimensions: Legal Environment, Organisational Capacity, Financial Viability, Advocacy, Service Provision, Sectoral Infrastructure, and Public Image. The report is based on the comments and scores of a panel of civil society experts combined with desk research.