Take the CNN-Multi-Choice Africa Journalist 2016 event to Namibia - as the top ranked Press Freedom country on the continent

As the country with good record in Africa when it comes to Press Freedom, I advancing that we must find ways to bring the CNN-Multi-Choice Africa Journalist Awards 2016 to Namibia.

I witnessed Africa's most prestigious media event which ended in Nairobi, Kenya a while ago ( 10th Oct 2015) with keen interest, mostly the notable absence of all Southern African countries with the exception of South Africa. My own country Namibia was also not represented, and for a long time, Namibian journalists seemed not just to have made it to the top rank of this great event on the African calendar. And being a Namibia media personality, I am aware and indeed the country has seasoned journalists who can bring out winning stories. They just need a bit of motivation and boost to inspire them.

It's such an inspiring event in terms of the recognition of the journalists work of excellence in various categories - science and technology, infrastructure, health and medicine, climate change and media freedom to mention but some of them.

Bringing it home however also means that our journalists must entre their best stories --- I know that we have some of the best stories to offer - that I don't doubt - there is also nothing extra ordinary about telling the best story (in other words, nothing that some of our journalists are not aware of in terms of  story planning, writing and story packaging techniques) -- it's basically to bring out the message that must be told - the message that will bring change for the better for society and planet to mention but some of the considerations --- it must be creatively packaged, well writen and sequenced and with great visuals that tell a story. The stories not only recognize the work of particular journalists, they uplift the standard of life of various communities and countries and Africa as a continent.

For exampel, one journalist who won told the Kenya potential solution to its current transport problems with graphics ---a tram, subway, public buses etc... On one page he illustrated the potential solutions....this also brought out the story of improving infrastructure. No country can survive without proper infrastructure - business and investors hinge on such development prerequisites.

Another one from a South African Journalist told the story of the robotic system used by ships --- to improve the operations --- he brought out the technology part...the government plan -- to improve that sector. Again technology is key for every business sector and countries cannot afford to remain behind in terms of innovation. Why are you as a journalist not bringing out those technological efforts in your community or country through your story writing?

One journalists wrote about the e-waste which is a danger to many communities in Africa - e.g. dumping of old computers which have been replaced due to new technology - it touched on the fact that many countries are yet to have a plan on e-waste--and this was a challenge in Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria - the specific reporter who won called on African leaders to stop the dumping of e-waste in Africa. Do we have e-waste in Namibia for example, what has been our plan to manage that? How can you as a journalist contribute to the solution to this problem?

One from East or West Africa referred to the Farmer who transport broke down along the way due to muddy or bad roads - which affected his produce -- again that pointed to the issue of how poor infrastructure can affect SME's and cause them to go bankrupt. SME's are engines of many economies, and if they are not nurtured well, they must just die a natural death. How is the situation in your own set up? What is your contribution to the growth of SME's by highlighting challenges that must be addressed?

One story on health and medicine brought to light the situation of some communities in Kenya who drank water with some chemical or contaminated which damaged their bones (ostoporosis) - parents, children - which caused them pain and some unable to walk - this reminded me of our own Leprosy story from the Kavango region by colleague Anna Nicodemus,

A political story from Cape Verde - in Portuguese highlighted the vandalised grave side and tomb stone of the founding father of that country. This apprently happened despite the fact that the military set up was only about 500 meters away. It called for those in power to be held accountable, and the good news was that after the story was covered, the government also renovated the said grave side.

And there were many other stories -- e.g. the case of Maiduguri murder in Nigeria where seven people lost their lives -- while some were injured... it looked at the fact those responsible were not brought to book --the reporter did follow up the story now and then - also calling on the leaders to be accountable ...

The African Journalist of the Year told a story of the political situation in Cameroon, how some under cover discussions took place in a hotel to plan for the incumbent leader to remain in power. This was an investigative peace. The journalist booked a hotel room and ended up among those planning this "undemocratic"thought.

It was such an empowring event with journalists felling so proud that someone recognized their work...

The winners and finalists got tropies, cash and they will also go to CNN Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia - for the Fellowship....

All Africa Journalists for the last 20 years were present --- Kenya's President blessed the occasion, Namibia's ICT Minister and his Zambian Counter parts also witnessed the event ...

You need to experience it to understand what I am saying in this post... let's bring it home ---and you will see how many of our journalists including studies will be inspired...

Yeah, there is so much one can talk about - it was moving yet entertaining ...

Let's join hands to bring the Award to Windhoek next year-----

I am sure we shall be very happy of its impact - on the economy, solutions to some social problems through reporting and leave a more inspired journalistic force.

I wrote this post as a passionate individual from the media profession, visualizing my experience of this year's event - I thought I must share this with the rest of those who might appreciate this.

D- Naff ft Sunny Boy & Tequila - Lala Nawa Official Video

Away with baby dumping - Away with the so-called passion killing - Your small one could be the next Trevor Noah, Barack Obama, Dr Hage Geingob, Monica Kalondo, Zuckerberg and the list continues - the same applies to your partner - she too has such a bright future - therefore let's free our minds of unwanted thoughts.

mmmmm, to the young moms, and moms to be, espcially those who might have some challenging thoughts about your small one, or expected baby.

Are you following the world news?

Have you heard that SA-based born and bred Trevor Noah (The Day Walker) as call him is taken the International Comedy Market by storm as of this week?

I am sure you know the challenges Trevor Noah and his mom and grand mother endured - as a result of his mixed race genes. I guess you heard that he shared a sofa as a bed at his grand mom's house in Soweto for years.

I guess you know the story of the USA's current President - and the background of his mixed race tale and growing up being who he was. You heard about Zuckerberg right, the inventor of the face book platform, as young as he is - today he is one of the World's youngest business minds - I guess you followed his varsity study challenges -- and that he once dropped out of the varsity... therefore, the tough times are just shaping our journeys to success.

And i am also sure that there are amazing stories in your own countries - own communities and families - about how a person's life can change from humble beginnings to that of Heroism.
What about your own personal story, isn't it inspiring too? How did you manage to be who you are today? And i guess you know that you still stand such a great chance to reach for the top - and be among the Stars?

Now, the reason I am posting this message is basically to awake your thoughts that - your little one could be another Trevor Noah in waiting. Your baby could be the next Back Hussein Obama - may be your baby girl will be the the next Michelle Obama in her own way - Oprah Winfrey -- as I guess you have also ready about their growing up moments.

May be your unborn baby is the next "Apollo Eleven", or the Albert Stein - or may be our own Dr Hage Geingob in the context of Namibia or Liberia''s Head of State Sirleaf, or may be our own Michelle McLean - or Frankie Fredericks ---and the list continues..... Have you thought about our own Namibian First Lady - young and vibrant - a huge brain for business - with so much growth to offer to many of us... and our own Youth Advisor at State House, Namibia's' Daisry Mathias --- have you taken time to know more about how she came at that level.. And the list really continues especially in Namibia ---you too stand an equal opportunity - just think about our own Dilish Matthews who represented us and Africa successfully at the Big Brother House -- what is your matter, why do you think yours is more than amount to move?

I would want to encourage you this evening, that tomorrow holds so much for each one of us on this planent, including you and your small one. The future which is usually so difficult to tell holds so much in store for all of us - our destinies are shaped with Silver linings - even though at times it takes time and hardship to realize that....

As a young mom, take a minute - pause and think about what I have just written here - look at your small one - and take a giant leap right now - be free - free your mind - free your spirit -- and let go of that concern.

The future is bright - all the time, you might not see that right now - it might be blurry in your sight - which is also normal - but look and look again ---

Trevor Noah as we speak has just broken that barrier --- Barack Obama has forever broken the myths -- Dr Hage Geingob has proven that there is always a break-through but above all - that anyone can "make a great come back",,,

You too can do that -- yes, you -- you have infact made now - just by reading this post ...
This also applies to the young men who for some reason might have been attached by unwanted thoughts -- your friend, your partner - your girl could be one of those big names I have just mentioned plus those that I could not liste here...

Now, why do you take such drastic actions when you indeed have only differed on an issue? We are different and will therefore have different percepptions and thoughts - and will disagree at times --- why don't you make way for us to disagree -- disagreeing does not mean the end of the world... now, next time you think as if your world is just about to end in terms of your thoughts, think again -- there are so many possibilities - you just need to find them....ask for advice -- there are those who love you and will always care to see you succeed.

This post is meant for my young cyber friends, those who really need it -- and I am so glad that I am able to share this thought which will hopefully go a logn way in freeing many of our young cyber friends' minds.

Away with baby dumping - Away with so called passion killings.... let's free our minds for greater opportunities - what will improve the quality of our lives and those around us.

If Trevor Noah can riks taking the World's Comedy Market by Storm, then you too can realize your dreams - Agribusiness Incubation

A Word of Courage to the youth to succeed in Agribusiness Incubation Activities

In the USA, a young and vibrant Comedian took over (the Globe Popular TV Show - ...The Daily Show) from the decades old experienced (Sit-up as the opposite of Stand-up) Comedian Guru..

And despite some criticism from some sectors (which is usually normal for any infancy and start up business), SA born - and bred 31 year old Trevor Noah is destined for Greater things as he fit himself in Jon Steward's CNN Comedy Show.

In Nairobi, although in a group format, young people have also taken over the Agribusiness from their fore-mentors - and are destined to run with it as the Agribusiness Incubation Agenda 2015-2015 is unveiled tomorrow.

Nothing is impossible - if Trevor Noah can risk taking the World's Comedy Market by Storm - young as you are - there is nothing stopping anyone - any young person, actually you reading this post from one day taking over from Microsoft's Bill and Miranda Gates of this World, the Buffets and anyone else...now it's time to make incubation shine in Africa and the world....and you can be the stepping stone for that action.

All that is needed is the attitude change - and commitment, that that change we want to see - must come from us...

Go Trevor Noah, Go the African Incubators - you are so cool, you are on point, and destined to rule the world on business principles.‪#‎Agribiz2015

Sustainable Development Goals in New York, African Agribusiness Incubators in Nairobi, Kenya, all happening in September 2015

In New York, World Leaders have signed of Sustainable Development Goals, the successors of the Millennium Development Goals.
In Nairobi Kenya, Africa Scientists and Agribusiness Experts, Financiers and Agribusiness Incubatees and other relevant partners signed off Africa's First Ever Agribusiness Incubation Conference.
All these efforts are aimed at further alleviating poverty and hunger among both the world and Africa's citizens.
They amongst others focus on increasing agricultural production and productivity - and creating jobs among specifically Africa's young population of men and women.
As you read this post, what is your contribution towards achieving the recently unveiled sustainable development goals - and making Africa's incubates revolutionize the various economies of the continent?
The popular saying states, ask not what the country can do for you, but what you can do for your country. Now, take a moment and taken an oath as to how you will successfully contribute towards these efforts.
 

Africa's First Agribusiness Incubation Conference ever

Did you know that Africa is hosting its very first Incubation Conference in the Kenyan Capital Nairobi?

The conference which started on Monday, 28th September and ends on Wednesday, 30th September 2015 has attracted 400 delegates and 50 exhibitors from the agribusiness community across the globe, financial service providers and incubators from  Africa, Agro Value Chain and Market development experts, research institutions, members of academia, incubatees and development organizations/partners.

The focus of the discussions will be based on African case studies but  relevant experiences from other parts of the world will also be shared.

For more latest information on the event and other side meetings, follow the page below,

African Ag-Biz Incubation Conference 2015

https://www.facebook.com/AfricaIncubateAgBiz

 

Hano, are the media operators/owners grabbing the various opportunities the multi-media platforms offer?

Yes, each business owner including media houses has to double check the various tools or platforms are suitable to access or reach his or her customers. but yeah...

I am just saying - multi media platforms offer so much for all uses to maximize their business product offers and value to the experience they offer.

For instance, are media operators or owners making use of blogs? Do they try out vlogging? And You-Tube? Well, these are but some of the few platforms I am mentioning that can give choices to your followers ---

We leave in a dynamic media environment whose customers and audiences use various media consumption formats -- especially the young ones -- and if we do not follow them and catch them where they are - and at the platforms they "chill" we might just lose them..

That is why I just thought about - the question of trying the various online platforms - based on your followers data - to ensure that they have free and easy access to the experience of why you do what you do ...

Again, this post is but my own view as the multi-media worker and lover  - in my individual capacity.

I just love the multi-media buzz - it keeps media operators and owners on their toes - or else - they risk having their audiences or customers poached by those who offer them the best product (news) experience

I love multi-media - it gives any operator and owner a run for his or her money and puts such conduit on his or her toes.

On the other end, users have a choice --- gone are the days when e.g. a particular TV station would relax and air its news at a particular hour, or a specific print media waiting to publish at a particular hour or the following day - or a radio station, dragging feet as its show will air will air in a particular slot.

In today's world - various media houses have gone multi-media - print media not only publish, the have online news - they have video even on demand, they have mobile news and news alerts.

On the other hand, radio stations not only do broadcast via their given frequencies via fm or short waves or whatever, radio service nowadays have websites, they stream news and programming, and they publish too.

This also applies to traditional TV owners - they do not only broadcast via TV Channels, they have websites too, and publish and stream - and all..and they go live -- if you wait for the next day or hours after the event has happened, you will be a "follower" as news broadcast is concerned and not the leader.

Just take not that leading with news or programming requires strict ethics and accuracy - as you cannot be first with wrong or inaccurate or incorrect news

And that is what I like about multi-media - it created a "border-less" fabric among media houses when it comes to specific news and programming broadcast/publish formats... today. we are talking about products in the media.

We are referring to our our news and programming as product - and that product has to be competitive - in order to be marketable ---

The second point we talk about is the "experience" our product gives its consumers - as we learnt from Simon Sinek (google him up from YouTube), people buy "why"we do what we do and not what we do or how we do it ( I picked that concept up from the NBC Leadership Development Programme).

And any media person or set up that ignores this aspect risks having its audience and customers swing to those who fill the product experience satisfaction.

We are at the "peak"of multi-media - and that alone has just heightened my passion for being in the media industry...

You want to try that out? Yes, all you need is a bit of a media passion and a doze of loving to inspire others and changing people's lives for the better.

Perseverence - what a driving force?

Without going into defining what perseverance is or mean, I am already jumping to conclusions that if you can persevere, you can go planets.

Yesterday I listened to a rebroadcast show of one of Namibia's young top lawyers, and I got even more convinced that perseverance can move mountains...

When you persevere, you remain on your your target, focused and unwavered. When you persevere you are destined for all those great things, you remained walled and unmoved. You can fall, once, twice or event thrice, all you do is pick yourself up dust the dirt off and look forward and then you march.

The lawyer's I listened to said he lost one case twice but he remained convinced that justice was not served and that he would pursue that justice even it it mean that he would use his own money to ensure that fairness prevailed. After some years, he won the case..

That's the act of believing in something - strong conviction and arduous way of perseverance. It is lined with selflessness, personal sacrifices and gain for others, and not for oneself.

I am one of those who are hooked to perseverence, strong conviction and believe, standing for justice and fairness as well as patriotism, ready to sacrifice just for the sake of justice.

Perseverance is such as crazy drive force which can leave one on his or her feet regardless of the danger in a particular situation.

I salute all those who persevere for the sake of humanity and people advancement - lined with fairness and justice.

If you think out of the box, nothing is impossible

Most of the time, we are limited by our thoughts, unknown, fear, disbelief and self doubt of what we are capable of doing.

However, with a little bit of inspiration, one can unlock one's potential through deep thoughts and hope...all we need is a bit of courage and push to look behind our traditional scene or sight.

None of us had known what would become of us by now, or what we would have achieved in life or our contribution to our families, work, communities and nations, but here we are..

Who knows what tomorrow holds, no one. Therefore, why are we worried if we do not know how much energy and power we poses to move beyond that little hill or the mountain... who knows if we would be on the mountain top tomorrow? If we could be at the highest peak ever, why do we limit ourselves, why do we deny ourselves possibilities of life?

That is why I am saying if we think outside the box, nothing becomes impossible, impossible actually becomes possible, therefore, do away with self doubt, move a step forward and aim for beyond the stars....

This was just a bit of motivation from me, your cyber friend

Let's credit the names of the photographers who have taken the pictures we use or pose on our online pages as a way to appreciate their work.

Dear Cyber friends, in journalism, content (audio-visual or print) is usually attributed, or recognized or credited. For example, if I use a picture photographed by someone else, I need to credit that person. If I use the text formulated or originated by another writer, I must attribute that by recognizing his or work. Those in the media know this already, but for those that might need, let's start to do so.

Therefore, the aim of my post is to encourage fellow cyber users on this page and my friends in particular - those who might find this worth it to start crediting the people who have taken the pictures, video, written the text or any art or design. That is one way of appreciating their work and growing as well as inspiring them.

You might probably be thinking or want to ask this question?

What about a "selfie", I am also encouraging ourselves to credit selfies - because such a selfie could be shared by so many friends and it is just good to credit the person who took the selfie, thereby also appreciating his or her self-photo taking skills.

Again, the author of this post is basically assisting those who need this advice that by crediting the work of others, we also encourage them to do more next time.

In Journalism if a person uses the work of others without crediting or attributing their names to it, it is called plagiarism and that must be avoided at all time.

This platform is an opportunity for us all to exchange ideas and learn from one another, empower and inspire one another. This is one reason why I authored this piece.

The Namibian Presidency must have Great Political Advisors indeed, especially when it comes to Unity For a purpose and respecting the Founding leadership

Namibia continues to amaze nations when it comes to issues of unity and strengthening of ties among political leadership.

With the inauguration of Dr Hage Geingob as Namibia's Head of State, a Presidential Council consisting amongst others, Founding President Dr Sam Nujoma and Former President Hifikepunye Pohamba was constituted to advice the Presidency. This is a very unique strategy - to appreciate the foundation set by the previous Heads of State and respect for the Founding Fathers. In some African Countries, this is rare, infact some countries do witch hunt their former leaders for various reasons. At least, here at home, the spirit of ubuntu is reigning.

This evening, the National Broadcaster, NBC broadcast a TV News Story on the three leaders' meeting at State House - Dr Geingob (Head of State), Former Speaker of National Assembly, Dr Theo-Ben Gurirab and Former RDP President, Mr Hidipo Hamutenya. The three have been friends from the days of exile - and although Mr Hamutenya became the leader of the Oppposition then, the three - having been all three key staunch SWAPO (ruling party) supporters, they are still together, meeting at State House. What can you really call this, not unity and respect for each one of the highest order. They were brothers in arms indeed, but are now brothers in unity for a purpose in an independent Namibia.

I think the Namibian Presidency - has great Advisors, playing a key role in uniting the Nation - being exemplary all the time.

Recently, the Head of State and First Lady also declared their assets, even if they are not required by the Law to do that ...this is so commendable.

And the Land just marked 1000 days of their Presidency, outlining key issues that have already put in place despite the fact that that time is limited to do many things, but at least, in Namibia, it was possible to pull off significant actions.

The First Lady - on the other hand has also brought the Founding First Lady, Madam Kovambo Nujoma and the former First Lady, Madam Penehupifo Pohamba together, to appreciate their work and the path they set for her.


All these are great examples to be emulated. In some instances, many, when they take over whatever leadership, at national, political, corporate, community, family levels disregard the work of other people who previously held similar positions, and opt to rather start their own charts..... but what we see is consolidation of what has been started - stability followed by prosperity.


Most of the time, people including some of us in the media do not see the inspiring stories in our own Land - or in Africa for that matter - and will prefer not to tell these types of stories.

Let's tell our own stories folks - no one will tell it better that ourselves. I am sure there are so many good things to talk about - good stories that are growing our nation ---yes, there are challenges, and we can highlight those too, but the gist of this post, is, let's celebrate our own good stories too. Let's not be shy to be part of those - and associate ourselves with those.

This post is written in my own capacity as a Namibian and has nothing to do with my professional position. Thank you for taking note of this disclaimer.

Chichi,The Dogg,Dillish,Maria And Diop" for the Cause"

Chi-Chi - Put 'em Up (Official Video) HD

Calm in the midst of a deadly storm - Are you able to brave emotions or do you rather let them out and flow with the feeling of the moment?

Emotions are probably one of the most challenging feelings or situations to manage. Have you found yourself if a stormy situation - and yet you are expected to keep your cool and calm. How easy or difficult is it to do that? How can a captain seeing the ship about to be swallowed by waves still be expected to maintain his or her cool.

This is indeed a challenge and those who are unable to manage their emotions during tough situations are said to be weak. But how can that be the case if one is human and has feelings too, such as anger, disappointment etc?

But, those who have experience this situation would say, if you manage to keep your emotions under control despite delicate situations, then you have managed to pass the key level - which many hardly reach.

The issue is not to suppress how you feel but to rather manage that in a fair manner to avoid explosions and dynamites.... for some, braving stormy weathers with a cool head - also frustrates some, because they might perceive the calmness as lack of interest in the situation at hand... but as you may understand, we are all diverse -- and will always have different angles to various issues, e.g. those who will see a glass half full or half empty..

Well, this post was basically aimed at stimulating thinking, and once you find yourself in the stormy temperament, check your degree celcius coolness --- and decide whether you will manage the fire under your skin - and cool the adrenalin in your system or whether to put up a dynamite - or tsunami for the inability to manage it...

This post is aimed at information sharing, putting heads together and think deep especially for the youth who might need this. The author posted that in her private capacity as a Namibian, thinker and leader...

The fish's health (productivity & peformance) is from its head!

Most of the time, one hears the notion that the Fish rots from its head . What this really means, I can not explain but I guess those who originated this idea can explain better.

This saying (the fish rots from its head) has been known for years and to date, it is still relevant. In most cases, this was associated with poor performance of various set-ups, corporates, non-governmental organizations, communities and even families. Whenever a business or a set up was not performing well, the target is mostly that of the Head or Heads. Therefore, the organization or set up is referred to as a body, and its leadership is dubbed as the Fish Head. Therefore, if an action was to be taken to try and heal or quarantine the organization or a set up, the head is most of the time, the first spot to treat. Otherwise, however also say, the buck stops with .... probably the head -- of the fish in this case.

This post is aimed at challenging this notion -- that, yes, the rot of the fish could be at the head, but what about the health of the fish, isn't that in the head too? The health in this case is referred to the performance of the business, set up, organization, corporate, family community and organization. In this case, whenever an organization is healthy or doing well, will the well-being or performance still be associated with the head, or this only applies when the fish head is rotten?

I am saying this because at times, when things go tough, the tendency and a quick one for that that is  point the index finger to the  rot at or in the fish head. But, when things go well, then the fish body which infact usually does the actual work - as in the workers in operational area or factory - are given the health passport (in this case the performance). The challenging question is however, yes the workers are usually in the factory and doing the work - at all times, including when the fish head is not healthy or healthy....

Why does the fish head has to take the responsibility of the rot and not of its health?

Is the fish head only good enough to be associated with the rot and not with the health (excellent work)?

In my view, if the fish head is the offing for the rot, then it is equally the offing for its health. And choosing only to associate the fish head with the rot, will mean double standard.... equally so, if the body is only good enough for the health (performance) and not for poor health (rot or poor performance) then equally to me, this is double standard and a selective - application of when to allocate health or poor health in the same head or body.

Well, these are basically the author's personal views as an individual member of society - and has nothing to do with any particular person or set up -- the post is aimed at information sharing especially among the youth who might need this - and to stimulate thinking around this aspect.

nancy vid

Taking responsibility. Do you take responsibility or do you instead find a reason to shift whatever happened to the next body?

 Most of the time, one hears of the notion that one has to take responsibility.

What does that mean?

In my own opinion, it means that I am responsible for what goes on in my life and what is in my radius of jurisdiction.

This also means I must not shift negative impacts to the next person regardless of my situation, but to own what I can control to change the situation at hand.

Those who believe in the universe and the secret would say, you as an individual are responsible for attracting whatever happens in your life.

Yes, you might say NO, but it is a school of thought that goes for that notion.

So, next time something happens to you - do not look out for a body to shift that effect to - look at yourself first and find out what you are able to change to improve the situation. If it is beyond your control, well, do only what you are able to act on.

Never mind about the next person - even if he or she yearns to see you below your current level of being - you and only you can make a difference in your own life and that of your loved ones, colleagues friends etc.

I guess you still remember President Obama's words when he said, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and proceed. He did not say, go and call the person who caused your fall or down-fall, but yourself.

Your great efforts to change your situation to the better will always mean so much not only to you, but even to the next person you might have thought to have caused your low-mode. So, next time you feel low, do not blame it on the next body but your self, surely if you act on it, you can only up your good feeling, value and hope.

This post is meant for my young followers, at least those who need this. It is not directed to a particular follow or person, but it is aimed at sharing information and for me to plough back into my society. I hope one or two person will benefit from this.friendly post.

I authorized this post in my private capacity as a leader in society and parent and not in my professional status.

Nancy in Hospital 2015

CRITICISING WITHOUT OFFERING A SOLUTION - A SYNDROME FACING MANY OF US IN NAMIBIA!

Some Namibians are so good at criticizing and can do so for a full day, weeks, months and even years. But, you know what, they offer little or not solution at all.

I have observed with keen interest that some of us seem to be so over qualified in criticizing, at times not even understanding the subject or context of it, and while talking against the subject matter does not really matter, it is disheartening to know that those so loud about a particular issue have no option or alternative to it. There seem to be satisfaction of joining the bandwagon, and be part of groups, even if one has not carefully understood why the uprising or opposition to a particular subject matter.

This syndrome, which has not turned into a chronic disease for some has been contracted by many across the board, whether in a business, at community, family or friend level. And it is killing some parts of our fabric depending where that manifests itself. The worse thing is that - until you "click or get it", you might not realize that you are also in that trap.

Most of the time, an issue or a subject is raised, and quickly, a person jumps to it in opposition, but without even thinking or understanding the impact of what is meant and when you ask what the option could be or why even the objection, that person might not even given you the reasons why he or she is opposing that.

Yes, no one is expected to immediately or just say yes to something - infact he or she must first understand what is meant, and do some quick cost and benefit analysis or advantages versus advantages or something to that effect. At times we do not have background to what has been meant, but still we are the loudest in objecting but without offering a better solution.

I may also have been part of that group that might have blindly criticized some issues, but at least I am coming to my senses and have made it a point to always have an option to something I am thinking is not working - according to my views.

This post is therefore aimed at encouraging some of those who are at least open minded to pause and think about how they will assist situation next, by not only being the loudest in opposition but also be ready to offer solutions.

This is the only way we Namibians can minimize this disease of which many of its sufferers are not aware of yet -- some type of diagnoses need to be presented to them and treatment be prescribed that if you oppose something offer an alternative, otherwise, in the end, you have basically not made any worth contribution about from expressing you dislike.

Yeah, again this post is not aimed at a particular person, it is basically meant to contribute to making great input - as they do in the debating fora -- another speaker will saying something - and the opposite group will air its objection but with reasons.

And one does not necessarily need to agree to what is being said, but at least one has to respect the view of the other person - and that is said to be agree to disagree...

This post is important is so key mainly to young people who are leaders of now and beyond... one does not want to see a young one just criticizing or growing up just opposing issues but not offering alternative, as that is not a good example to fellow youth.

So, next time you criticize something, offer a solution and don't just talk for the sake of talking.... let's help one another - we are learning everyday - by sharing ideas... thanks

The author of this post has expressed the views as an individuals Namibian - and leader who is especially helping the youth to grow in various respects. This is advice-sharing - for those who need this, especially the young ones. Thanks for having taken a minute to scan through this post.

 

"No Namibian must feel left out: - when you hear this slogan, you will immediately think of Namibia's President, Dr Hage Geingob.

"No Namibian should feel left out".

This has become the President of Namibia's key signature word (including "Omake"of course) as he beckons everyone one to be part of the prosperity team - unity in diversity.

It actually reminded me of the NBC World Leadership Programme that my employer hosts for the workers - where the facilitators - NBC Board Chairperson, Sven Thieme and NBC Director General Albertus Aochamub ask participants about the legacy certain leaders left behind. For example, if one saw the photo of Namibia's Founding Father of the Nation, Dr Sam Nujoma, one would immediately think of Namibia's liberations struggle and freedom, the same with South Africa's late President, one will immediately associated him with that country's freedom or USA's last JF Kennedy who was associated with having landed someone on the moon. This is also the same with our current President, Dr Geingob, although he is less than a month in the office, when one thinks about him, he can already be associated with - "No Namibian should feel left out" in the country's prosperity and all. And I am sure a lot is still in store for that purpose.

Now, back to the slogan of No One Should Feel left Out.......the purposes of this post.

How do we drive this trade mark home, right to the grassroots and ensure that each Namibian embraces is and whenever he or she is doing something must consider this important saying?

As I try to be creatively reflect on it, I am proposing that we CASCADE this inclusivity slogan to our various settings - regions, towns communities, work places, and families to ensure that everyone who forms part of a particular fabric is not left out, but included in whatever is meant for Namibia.
For example:
At the WORK PLACE we can say - just my thoughts as a Namibian right? Kindly do not interpret it differently, it is basically meant for the context I highlighted.
"No NBC employee should feel left out"
 And the list can go with other work places, I just mentioned my work place as an example
In a particular REGIONS  we could say:
"No Khomas Region Resident must feel left out".
In a TOWN OR CITY  we could say:
"No Windhoek City Resident should feel left out"

In a COMMUNITY we could say:
"No Mondesa Community resident should feel left out" or
"No Katutura Community Member, or Donkerhoek Community member should feel left out".
"No Pionierspark Community member or Windhoek West Community members  should feel left out".
At the FAMILY level we could say:
"No Muinjo Family Member" or "No Samuehls Family Member should feel left out".
This way, I am thinking we can give this "prosperity" slogan a deep and practical meaning as each one of us will have to entrench that.
Yeah, again, that was just my personal thought as I reflect on the way forward - being an excited member of the prosperity team member or resident of Namibia.
I love face-book as it really gives an opportunity for a person to express one's thoughts - at least positive thoughts which can be shared with others.

Just a reminder, that your right ends where the other's begins - this is so key in this world of digital opportunities!

Recently, I shared the same reminder with fellow "Toast Masters" at a workshop held in Windhoek and with about 100 different professionals at the Digital Opportunities Conference in East London, South Africa.

As a staunch online/web user/lover, I find myself so much addicted to enjoy the digital opportunities that are in our midst. This is basically referring to the platforms the internet revolution has brought about, access to internet infrastructure, affordability and the fact that government has now also made it easier by setting the minimum wage for both farm workers and domestic workers, enabling them to earn a living wage. This means, if a domestic worker earns over N$1 200.00 from this month and a farmer worker having been earning at least N$800.00, they can afford to buy a sim card of N$30 dollars and a minimum airtime recharge voucher of N$5.00 (Namibia's currency is pegged to the SA Rand, therefore the value is one on one).

Also, if you can remember, in October 2010 during its Mixa-Live Event, MTC celebrated 10 decades of existence and confirmed that it had 1.5 million customers on its data base then, and mind you, Namibia's population then was still at 2.1 million and not at the current 2.3 million (latest data of 2013). Yes, I am aware that there was concerns that some of the clients on the same data base could be having two or three mobile phones, but yes, that's doesn't really matter much for the purpose of this post. What I am trying to depict is basically to say, more Namibians in the country are surely having access to the mobile phones and therefore internet depending on what they used it for most. From the Digital Opportunity Index as confirmed by the International Telecommunication Union, ITU, Namibia's 13.9 per cent of the current population uses the internet. To determine if a country is having the reasonable digital opportunities, the ITU website - and in line with the World Summit on Information Ethics held in Geneva in 2007 stated that the yardstick is between zero and one, and if a country is rated on one it means, it has digital opportunities.

With all that said, my focus is still on the fact that now that so many of us have these opportunities - free as long as you have airtime to use your internet infrastructure, what about the INFORMATION ETHICS of using such platforms?

Those in the media know that there are certain ethics, media ethics that a journalist must adhere to before creating, gathering, disseminate or archive or destroy some information, media ethics. In journalism, we talk about gate keeping - but now that each one has almost become a journalist, writer and author, blogger and vlogger, who is ensuring that the digital opportunity ethics are adhered to, at personal and professional level? That is why I am saying - your right still ends where the other's begins, and therefore, you -and I have to implement some type of ethics not to encroach on other people's rights.

Yes, there is no problem - with digital opportunities - they are so great - and have changed our lives for the better - both at professional and personal level - these days, an NBC decoder can give you your TV Channels and Radio at the same time - this was not the case before - you can also access the NBC programmes via streaming wherever you are in the world ... you as a citizen or digital enthusiast like me can also directly get in touch with any media house by texting or whats-apping to them on an issue and get your feedback in real time - you can ireport - and can also send pictures to any media house etc... there is so much to mention - print media nowadays can also have their sound or audio visual on their website - unlike before when they would only focus on print - at personal level, you SMS your loved ones - Skype or instagram to find out how they are doing - you can e-wallet or e-learn or do almost everything ... but the big question is -who is helping those who need help to ethically use these digital opportunities?

As you can remember - here in Namibia - a video of a young lady involved in private and bedroom activities was reportedly being circulated - knowingly or unknowingly of potential implications. This is pure un-ethical way of engaging in digital opportunities? How would you feel if you the footage had you or your loved one in the audio visuals circulated, but worse of all, such an act could have legal implications?

Also, a picture of one of our young person who was shot in a reported clash with law enforcement was again circulated in no time on the web - even without knowing if the next of kin knew about this matter - and for those trained in the media professional, such actions have to be gate-kept and all aspects verified before the information is disseminated.

I know that there are a number of many other posts on the various pages whose legality has not been authenticated or verified - and it needs you and me to help out one another to be aware of where our rights end and the rights of others start.

Who is protecting our children against pornographic posts on these digital opportunities? Who is advising especially the new comers in this industry and young users that there are some vulnerable groups out there - that we have to be mindful of when posting our content.

Again, the digital opportunities have improved so much and help especially many professionals to be on their toes - to ensure that they give good quality and relevant content to retain their audiences and buyers and attract new ones - many of the newsrooms do get their story leads from the web -- and anyone can actually nowadays post their own content especially if they cannot get space in the traditional media when it comes to their editorial policies, but at the same time, we have to work out some frameworks for personal and professional use when it comes to using the multimedia platforms.

Let's hold hands - and share ideas on how to properly benefit from these various digital opportunities - without hurting others. It is us who need to help instil the ethics among our various groups, at home, work, community and country.

The media houses - as I always say must also adapt to the digital opportunities and ensure that their editorial policy guidelines attend to new ways -- on the other hand, us at personal level must also have some guiding principles as to why we want to make use of the digital opportunities - to tell the truth or to do the opposite?

With climate change, everyone is expected to adapt, why no doing the same with the digital opportunities. One good example that one must use is - whenever a passenger boards a flight, the flight attendants reminds even the frequent flyers to observe the safety features --- and I am also saying, before each one of us makes use of the online platforms - face book, twitter, instagram, Skype and all - may be it is time that we also thin about our personal and professional ethics to remind us why we are making use of such opportunities, what are we trying to achieve? And our motto and mandate will then guide us in whatever we post on our pages.

Yes, we might have made mistakes before - and I am not excluded from this one, but we still have time to change for the better - therefore, let's keep on reminding ourselves that our rights end where others' right begin.

Also, for the sake of those who might not know - watch out that there is something called photo-shop, where a photo amongst others can be magicked if I may use this word - worked and changed and fit on any body - e.g. the face can be yours but the other features might not be yours - and then posted. And for those who might not know, you might be so shocked to see that you or your loved one is posted as doing funny things --- yeah, this is just a hint - and all these things only happened if we do not implement the concept that my right ends where yours begins..

Enjoy the digital opportunities, and don't forget to be digital opportunities ethics wise.

Disclaimer, I wrote this post in my personal capacity - as a Namibian and an Online Ethusiast who is eager to share with fellow users the need to be ethical each time we put our fingers on any digital opportunity gadget buttons to post something.

The Vision Board - Do you have one?

Well, how often to we page back to our Vision Boards, to see how some of our personal goals are being achieved or - action on some to improve on their reality-action? I have no answer on this one, but all I can say is, you must make it a point to have a Vision Board, you will reap its fruit - because what you do is basically plant a seed now and sooner or later, it germinates and you will be happy when you see it blossoming.

Ooh, my Vision Board.....thank you Lord - you are turning all those plights in reality!
I hope all my cyber friends have also drawn up their own Vision Board - we have to know what we aim to achieve in our lives, daily, weekly, monthly and annually.

None of your personal or professional action should be aimless or be taken for granted, e.g. when you attend a course, you must have at least one or two expectations, when you enrol for study and pay those funds or have them sponsored, you must know why you took that step and what impact it must make in your life.

No one, but no one should ever do something that does not add value to his or her live as that will be wasting of time, energy and thoughts - and ever physical resources like money - and as they say, times is money too.

Have a purpose in life - aim to become a different and better person every new day - you have the potential to improve your current status - but that can only happen it you put your mind to it ...take a few minutes, and think about what you want to change, the difference you want to make in your life, at the personal or professional level or even in the life of your loved one or colleague, community and Namibia.

Your brain is powerful, use it and don't allow it to laze around -- now, next time I read your post, I hope to see that you have acted for a purpose and that you set yourself some goals-- realistic and practical ones - remember that you can start small, and be patient, but what is important is, you will surely make it.

This post is aimed a encouraging my friends to start working on their personal plans - especially those friends who might appreciate this...

Nancy Muinjo (Chi-Chi) MY BREAST CANCER JOURNEY-WELCOME TO MY CHANNEL

Feeling so inspired as a Namibian Professional Broadcaster

Broadcasting at home has just become so much fun off late - the digitalisation process, multi-media, new media, social media and all the innovation of this world in our industry.

Our audiences are now able to directly interact with our producers/presenters, during live shows - giving feedback real time - and vice versa - they can text - if one of their goats has gone missing - and the message can be announced in no time - actually getting feedback right there that the goat was seen grazing somewhere near the next village ... it's a changing world in broadcasting and media in general

It's really up to as a professional journalists to enjoy our trade - and make maximum use of it.

 Live broadcasting is the trend in the world - we have to beam most if not all key events as they happen, we have to be there during the breaking news - everything is so possible nowadays, There is no more the issue of waiting for the report on the hour, you get it right there e.g. President-Elect's recent media conferences. That's what international broadcasters are doing - if President Obama is to speak - CNN and other broadcasters air that on the spot - and at the level where we are now, there is no way we delay the key message to our audience (s)


 If you do not broadcast live, you can stream your content or you can tweet or face book it - you can vlog and you can blog, you can instagram and you can YouTube, and yeah - use various new media platforms online - event print media can now go live via various web-opportunities brought about by the internet revolution. We have to be first with the news - but mot importantly, with have to be first with accurate, credible and reliable news. We have to keep on gate-keeping to ensure that our message is authentic and not misrepresenting the facts or confusing the audience (s). Professionalism, remains key.

I think it was time professional broadcasters and journalists jealously guard this unique profession as Doctors and Lawyers would do with theirs. No one should be allowed to dilute the profession, but rather growth it and raise it to the highest level. Namibia's win for Press Freedom in Africa rings a loud bell though - and credit goes to all who made that possible including the Namibian media industry as key role players.

There is so much we can do nowadays - the various platforms - TV, Radio, Mobile and Print - is just driving the industry crazy. Citizen Journalism and yeah - you mention it - it's all here right in our hand-palms on your smart phone and all - your radio services at home are not on the same NBC decoder where you find your channels - isn't that just great... ? We are in an Era that continues to unfold in terms of broadcasting and media in general.

I guess all those journalists out there who had at times dropped the profession to grow in other areas can now start make a come back and once again embrace their mother or founding profession and bring all those new talents they learnt from their new jobs - it's a value -add process --- we have to remain in love with our profession and continue to inspire the Namibian Nation - look at CNN's Christiaan Amanpour, Wolf Blitzer, Candy Crawly and all those Senior Journalists there including those at other broadcasters - they are still passionately carrying the Journalism Flag high - which means - we too can do the same and carry our Namibian Broadcasting Flag very high - as long as we share knowledge with the upcoming broadcasters who are also bringing along new skills and competencies especially in the new media... while those who have been on the block can knowledge manage the both the traditional and new media..

Aren't you inspired by the developments in our industry like me?

Disclaimer

This post is authored in my private capacity, as a Namibian broadcaster and an individual. I am just appreciating the online opportunities that are available which enable me to express myself and jot down my thoughts right away.

New Day, so much in store for each of us

Have you ever wondered what each brand new day has in store for you? Have you ever thought of positive things and progress that can happen to you every new day. Have you ever reflected a so much potential value that you can add to your being every day of the week?


Just pause, and think a bit - what positive things happened to you today when you woke up? What are all those great things that made you smile, happy, feel good and valued? What news did you receive today - and how did that news make you feel?

Well, I had a great day - and with so much great things in store.. a while ago, I just received an email, with some historic news attached to it. That is why I am saying each day has so much in store for everyone. I did not expect that particular mail, but I did have a great feeling that each day was so precious and anything beautiful can happen to me.

Well, I hope that you too had a great day - and that you experienced that great feeling --- Love is the greatest in this world, our hearts must be filled with love, hope, joy and fulfillment all the way - that is why I am thanking my Creator - for all the favour and blessings from the time I was born to date to the next level.

I thank God for each beautiful day He has made for us - to live and to let live ---and be part of mother planet... mmm, once again, each day, so much in store for each one of us.

This month (Jan 2015) marks my almost quarter of a century in broadcasting -- hippie, what a journey that was.

Time really flies....this month(Jan) marks my 24 consecutive years of service in the broadcasting industry. There has never been a dull moment for me in this business.

We are currently at the excitement peak of the profession especially with the implementation of the 2006 International Telecommunication, ITU's Digital Terrestrial Television, DTT directive which demands African broadcasters to convert their broadcasting infrastructure and equipment from analogue to digital.

We also have what is is called Direct To Home or DTH satellite TV and other opportunities brought about by internet revolution such as the online/web/multimedia platforms.

 In today's broadcasting and general media industry, you just SMS a storyline/lead or Hard News piece - or contact details of a impeccable source,  you can face-book both audio and visual story - you can tweet also both text and picture and vlog and blog - you can stream - you can actually do anything - all these at a press of a button, and as it all happens or in  real time.

 I love being part of this broadcasting hype even though the whole experience comes with its own challenges of the need to keep on verifying and double-checking the facts and accuracy of the information one gets as a high speed.  We are in the era of information ethics challenge, where almost everyone - journalist and audience have access to multi-media platforms and can write almost anything guided by responsibility and moral values as well as ethics.

In today's world, news makers can no longer really sweat to convince media houses for their stories to be covered even though the are mindful of the footprints of such media institutions - if their stories are not that newsworthy as per the usual rule 1 complemented by editorial stories, they go online and say it all right there - and some of the platforms like face-book do have a lot of followers which can also lead the story being shared, retweeted etc. The accuracy of the story and ethical issues can be a challenge, but yeah, I am sure such issues can always be managed, what is important is that there are not free platforms for those who life citizen or web journalism. Once again, thanks to the revolution of broadcasting especially here in Namibia.The advantages are more than the disadvantages, at least that's my view.

I thank those who gave me an opportunity to continue to do the service I love most - information dissemination to empower and grow the nation. And you know what, I did not realize that this is the month of it all, thanks to my LINKEDIN friends who through their congratulatory messages made me click that indeed, it has been 24 years already, almost 25 years - of Namibia's independence, but at 1990, that was the year the National Broadcaster was preparing to send some of Namibia's young journalists outside the country then to do journalism --- as our National University was only officially established in 1992 - still growing then to open doors of various faculties.

Disclaimer: All views expressed in this post are those of the author and has nothing to do with her employer. She expressed herself as a Namibian citizen and individual.

 

The media used to be known as the watchdog - but with the citizen web journalism and web audience/followers, I think the media is also now being watched closely - just my personal view.

Ooh ooh, the social media is such an opportunity. It allows us especially in the media to immediately report on issues or communicate on news story leads and even contact our sources on the spot and even write our stories in real time.

But the challenge is - one has to always verify and test  the information we pick up from this platform for its correctness as part of our ethics in the industry. On the other hand the the web has now somehow neutralized the believe or tradition that the media is the watch dog. But with web citizen journalism and web audience nowadays - the media is also being closely watched on its reporting - facts, images, sound and all. I am speaking from a personal experience, whatever I write on my page is tested, almost on daily basis. Some connections on my page write openly while others opt to inbox me. Also, web followers make comments on what the media report on daily - and can even contest an issue right away - that one is almost tempted to respond on the spot - but this is also not that easy because official institutions like media houses have official channels for communication. This is what I am trying to say - I won't really go into the actual issues or case studies to substantiate this post, but yeah, I am basically highlighting the issue of media being watched by non official media web-users too.

This means the traditional way of testing information has now been widened as at times the person reported on is directly following the reports on the web and is able to go for the right of reply on the spot. And again whether to believe what he or she says is another challenge. Interested online users who are most of our times are also keeping an eye on what the media writes, also on what other individuals write. Mmmm, how interesting...each one, especially those who love to write are watching one another and comment on the content we put place on the related platforms.

Then there is also the issue of the opportunity created for everyone including the media to freely use the web - including journalists and media managers (including this post author etc) to also express their personal views on issues not related to what they necessarily do. But, that again can be seriously viewed by some others depending on their opinions and how they see issues - at times bordering on conflict of interest of near threat to media ethics.

It is such a challenge - as the issue of information ethics also slowly crops in. This whole issue is now compelling various web users to have some sorts of guidelines, or policies to help them manage some of their activities on using online platforms.

The information explosion on the web is not only a challenge for the media to manage, for those who have been following the hacking of information in the big set ups - governments and business will understand what I am saying - people stealing identity - or let me say information cloning... mmm, I will end her for now ... and probably come back to this subject later... the whole information revolution on the web is so exciting, but one just has to keep a cool head in handling this...

Namibia on this year's Travel Plan? What is your Travel Plan?

Wow, Namibia mentioned as a travel destination on the BBC's TV Travel show a while ago (that show is still airing right now). It is even said that our country will mark its 25 years of independence so, it's thrilling. Indeed Namibia remains a jewel in many respects - tourism, democracy, media freedom with a great wealth of diversity among its nation and culture.That's BBC.

But, we must not wait to be told as to how great our country and its people are we have to learn to recognize our own value and worth...let's share those unique attributions with the young generation.

For those at home, you know already what you need to check out, so many tourism spots in your Mother Land. It is up to you to take that step, especially this year.



To the visitors, I am sure, you already know where to go, north, west, east, central and south, all sides are reach and dotted with travel spots, come and experience our heritage, it's not worth it hearing it from someone else, check it out yourself. The country's hospitality from its friendly people will ooze as soon as you set your foot in the Land of the Brave... I will withhold some information for now, giving you that feeling of curiosity to come over and see if what I am posting right now is worth it.

Namibia, our dreamland...know your Namibian dream.... May Namibia, My Pride.

I am a proud Namibia, oshili....ove (meaning and you)?

Succession planning and Succession Implementation at the work place.

 This note is not meant to target any particular work place, but it is a general thought, which can apply even at family level. It is also the post author's own view as an individual and concern Namibian who has observed this matter and commits to do something about it through information sharing.

I am proposing that each leader, manager, supervisor and even every worker or person my embrace succession planning and implementation. This means, one has to prepare for the next person or persons to be ready and competent in whatever way to take over when you will step down.

Most of the time, knowingly or unknowingly end up having a colleague who is retiring or at the age of about to retire in the section, department or company, but yet we say, there is no one
 to at least even fill the gap to be left by the person who is leaving.

The other strange phenomena I picked up is that when a person is retiring, that's when we ask him or her to stay on and apparently train the person to fill the gap he or she is leaving behind.

What have we been doing all the 12 months not to make appropriate arrangements to fill that gap. What don't we plan that at least even two years in advance instead of the last minute?

Really, we have to do something  if we have to improve on this matter. We have to tranfer and impart skills, and share information to empower others so that tomorrow when you are not there, the next person knows what was happening in your area or office.

I am sure if you personally commit to making a contributing in this regard, you will just be happy that you pioneered in your own way to make this matter the best ever in our country.

This also applies at the family level. You will find that a person is aging or getting weak physically but yet no other strong one or young person is prepared to take over. We have to learn to let go earlier to ensure that we remain with what we love most, because it will be preserved and sustained by the next person. Continuity and legacy ....it can only work out well if we plan in advance...






It is said that each one of must actually ask what he or she can do for his or her country and not what the country can do for him or her. Now, you and me must start somewhere, even in our own small way. It can be at home, any set-up and even at work. We can get information to read about this subject and find ways how to contribute to its implementation where we are.

Remember to succession plan and implement.

It's a planting season, have you put your seeds in the soil in order to reap from what you saw? What about your mental seed in order to achieve your annual objectives?

Mmm, the planting season....?

Yes, it's the time of the year that many farmers work on their fields - in order to get food for the rest of the year.. this is so critical for those who live on land crops - especially in rural areas, but commercial farmers too are not excluded from this aspect.

While it is a physical planting season, it is also the time that each individual plants his or her objectives for the year in order to achieve some goals at the end of if. If one does not plan for some good results in the end, usually there is no harvest towards the end of the year.

Therefore, there are two ways to plant our seeds, the physical seeds that need to be sown, and the mental seeds which entail planning and implementation of our strategies in order to achieve our objetives.

The question therefore is, have you put your seeds in the soil in order to get your produce? The other question is, have you worked out your plan for the year, that is have you planted your mental seed for your mental strategies?

Yeah, I was just thinking and I thought I must share with you while the season is right -- no one must miss this planting season as the rain has already started to fall in some parts of our country - and not making use of this appropriate weather, soil and all can just end into - no harvest.....

Writing Love --

I just love to write. I love to put those ideas on paper or have them buttoned on the computer to become text. At times I just get that drive, that insist that I have to put the ideas down as they flow via my thoughts... I get pressed to jot down the thoughts into sentences, paragraphs and then pages. Ye, it such a great feeing... whenever I do not write, I feel as if I am thirsty for something - not liquidish this time.. I feel as if I miss something, I feel as if something has to be done in order to feel normal again... sometimes I try to ignore that urge, but I have realized that ooh ooh, I can't live without writing.

Once I have written something, I feel so fulfilled, I feel satisfied and having accomplished my mission... it's not really what I write that matters at a particular time -- it is the expression of such thoughts that is key at a moment.... I seem no longer able to keep some thoughts and ideas as tacit only - I need to have these documented --- I do not write according to anyone's prescriptions or instructions, I just write as I see it fit as long as I ensure that my right ends where the others' right start and that I have to do so responsibly. I also know that everyone is equal before the law so there is no thinking of abusing the writing right.

With the evolving technology, I am so blessed as I can write down my ideas, and come back to them for fine tuning... I can write anywhere I find myself, as long as I have the internet and the necessary basic facilities to do so... I can face-book, I can tweet, I can instagram, I can blog and I can also vlog by lining up my story with images - or video... ooh, those who continue to improve technology have really made my life of the lives of my fellow authors easy ---.

We need to learn to write - and author -- that's the way to go - we have to contribute to the written word - even spoken via video...or just audio - this is so important for our history - at personal level, family, community and country levels. We have the energy, drive, and ability - why not make use of that?

Ooh, how I love writing -- I feel so peaceful, even now that I have jotted down some of the sentences in this post....enjoy.

2014 was so eventful for me personally, 2015 will even be so much better!

The universe kept on reminding to appreciate all the blessings of 2014 - and I respond by whispering that we had "a thanks giving evening"at home just before we ended the year to reflect on all great things that happened to us as individuals and as a family.

I a so grateful and actually cannot describe my profoundness in words.....

The universe again keeps on whispering to me that "2015 is your special year", the year is hinged with so much in store for me - at all levels, at home, work, community, country and global level. All I need to do is to re-emphasize the lined up blessings and the universe catalogue which is so large for all of us on earth will definitely have that ordered.

Thank you so much Lord for your grace - and generosity - and as per you the bible word, one only has to knock and he or she shall have the door opened - or ask and have one given.

Positivity and passion of what I do continue to flow through my veins each minute ... humility continues to ring a bell that we have to remain humble at all times. Knowing where I come from remains key as that directs me where I am going next. Respect and care --as well as growing others are my guiding leads.... and honour for my elders, parents and leaders will remain my pillars.

A discipline keeps on reminding in my head that as of now, I must not engage in arguments that will add no value to me as a person, my family, friends, work, community, country and the world ---I must only focus my energy on issues that will advance progress and development.

I am also reminded to always being there for others - hold their hands to come up to where I am and help them climb further than where I am am-- we have to grow others and our nation.

I am so grateful that 2015 and beyond look so promising for me - and that a lot is so lined up for me to accomplish, not for me as a person, but for my country and nation as well as the world.

I therefore welcome 2015 with both hands as I say good bye to 2014 in style and bowing my head while bending my knees at the same time.

"Namibia, a peaceful shine on a high hill" - nationals and visitors alike must treasure this trend

Yeah, they say, one tends not to appreciate his or her treasure or asset until that is taken away from him or her.

Also, at times, it is also not that easy to recognize the treasure or asset one has if that particular person has not seen those in need for similar assets/treasures.

As someone who continues to follow developments around the world - especially when it comes to peace and security, I always get so tempted to write posts of this nature, to remind fellow colleagues, friends and family as well as Namibians in general - mainly those who seem not to appreciate this aspect that - we have a treasure to jealously guard for.

Also, as someone who has had an opportunity to travel the world - I have also seen that peace is indeed is a prerequisite for development and therefore Namibians need to continue to nurture the peace they have now....

Our country is infact among those "peaceful shines"on a hill-top -- our stability and sovereignty remain so critical to each an every individual and visitors alike. We have to continue to really maintain that "beacon of peace and stability".

Yes, that peace and stability has not come about by itself, it is here because of your contribution to it, and for making sure that we maintain it, so congrats to your efforts too to make Namibia the country with the peace-shine...

You might be wondering as to how you contributed to that peace and strong political governance --- well, through your active participation in the national activities including the voting processes - in a peaceful manner and as per the set national and international voting and democracy standards.

Therefore, Namibians, let's keep our top spot when it comes to maintaining our security in the Land - including that of our neighbours. I just love it when I go to bed knowing that I can sleep peacefully (yes, apart from potential burglars  - which is a common happening in any country on earth), but I am not worried of any potential curfew or war somewhere -- in the part of Namibia, and that is why I am saying, that's really be happy of our treasure and asset we have -- the peace and stability treasure.

That treasure can be so costly once it is lost -- in terms of energy to restore it and material to do so ...

So, next time you hear or see someone trying to show suspected movements to disturb our national peace - I am sure you know who to contact, our law enforcement agencies -- enjoy the NAM-PEACE!

Using a "Selfie" as a pass-word or pin number. Wow, technologists around the world are really hard at work!

My brother likes to remind me that we must at all times avoid issues that will drag us back to "the stone age " as the rest of the word is busy with issues that will advance them further in various respects.... therefore any arguments we decide to engage in, must be constructive and advancing....


For those who have been watching international broadcasting channels these days, you will have definitely picked up information that the globe technologists leaders have been busy trying to find a secure way to manage one's information portfolios and pages.... finding the most appropriate way to access one's information from anywhere in the world...

The "selfie", which many of us learnt recently as a picture you take with your cellphone will now be used as a pass word ---have you even thought about that before that idea was announced this week?

 Using a "selfie"as a pass-word or pin-word/number as a way to improve security when it comes to accessing personal profiles or information portfolios? Wow, the world's ICT experts/technologists are really hard at work. Exciting moments indeed especially for techno-lovers like me - who likes to see new ideas coming afore --innovation, invention, strategies and all....!

Isn't this so encouraging and inspiring? -

The question that comes to mind is - what do you as an individual to to make a difference - in your life, that of your family, community and country? What are you doing with your great ideas, do you put them to good use or are you just holding them as tacit investment? Do you want to take those to the grave or would you rather share those with your country and the world and contribute to the improvement of mankind?

 I think we at home here in Namibia, especially the young brains must really ensure that we spend our time on issues that will advance us personally, our communities and country in various respects.

For 2015, I would like to challenge you that whatever argument you engage in, must be advancing - you have to ensure that you spend your time on issues that will improve progress....

 I just love technology and would ensure that I am updated when it comes to the latest techno especially for the facilities that shares information in real time... and whenever I hear any development in that regard, I just get so over the moon.....I mean, being a broadcaster, that's obvious .

Yes, I have known that with future passports, the individual's eye - in the form of an iris will be the identification or password in this case....and the reason is basically to minimize security risks which has also been a challenge as some expert hackers have also not been sleeping especially when it comes to information snooping....Yes, as much as the technologists continue to invent, the anti-technology are also working around the clock, but that is understood, we just have to keep on making use of the benefits and opportunities the techno advancement is bringing as that is worth focusing on compared to the challenges and risks thereof.

I do not want to really get into the nitty grieties of this subject, but i want to advise fellow Namibians, especially the youth and would-be ICT scientists that - we have to really spend our time on matters that will advance us personally, communities, and country.... while others are thinking deep on how to advance their countries IT-wise, we cannot afford to end up stuck in issues that will not really make a difference in our progress and development efforts.

Yeah, this post is basically aimed at stimulating your thoughts about how we in Namibia can also think about taking our Land of the Brave to high heights whether in ICT or in other areas, we have the brain power, we just need to put our mind to the strategy of doing so.