| THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026|Issue #15|WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA |
Trivia Question❓In what year was the Windhoek Carnival (KARNEVAL), one of the city's longest-running annual community celebrations, first held? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Bank Windhoek has invested more than N$21 million into community development during its latest financial year, reinforcing its standing as one of Namibia's most active corporate contributors.
The total combines N$9.65 million in direct corporate social investment with N$11.8 million channelled through the Capricorn Foundation.
Across the broader Capricorn Group, social investment in Namibia and Botswana reached N$29.3 million, with education claiming the largest share at 25 percent, followed by sport and welfare.
Key outcomes include over 11 000 people gaining access to regular meals, 35 000 children reached through early childhood development, and 800 rural artisans trained in practical skills.
The Cancer Apple Project also delivered N$4 million to the Cancer Association of Namibia, pushing its cumulative total since 2000 to a remarkable N$42.4 million.
Officials confirmed that measurable, long-term impact - not just outreach - now drives the bank's social investment strategy. Read More... |
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Windhoek's construction sector hit a notable slowdown in August, with building plan approvals dropping to 135 - valued at N$161.9 million - down sharply from 229 plans worth N$203.2 million in July.
The decline cut across every development category.
Additions to existing properties fell from 178 approved plans in July to just 94 in August, while residential approvals dipped from 44 to 35.
Completions also weakened, with only 17 buildings finished - down from 23 in July - at a combined value of N$21.3 million.
Commercial and industrial construction remains the sharpest concern.
Year-to-date approvals in this segment totalled just N$152.4 million, a steep fall from N$459.2 million over the same period last year.
A brighter spot: 252 residential plans worth N$1.15 billion were approved across the first eight months, outpacing last year's pace and signalling that housing demand remains resilient.
With interest rate relief offering some comfort, the coming months will reveal whether August marks a temporary dip or a deeper trend. Read More... |
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The Windhoek Jazz Festival is making a highly anticipated return on November 7, 2026, promising its most ambitious edition yet.
Organisers are raising the bar on what a world-class jazz festival in Southern Africa can look and feel like - blending live performances with curated food, local vendor exhibitions, and networking opportunities.
The 2026 programme will feature a diverse mix of jazz artists, tribute acts, contemporary performers, and homegrown talent, appealing to both purists and first-time festival-goers.
Beyond the music, this year's edition carries a sharper focus on economic impact - actively supporting Namibia's creative economy and positioning Windhoek as a serious cultural tourism destination.
Past editions have drawn thousands, cementing the festival's reputation as one of Namibia's most significant cultural moments.
The full artist line-up is still to be announced, with ticketing and venue details expected through official channels soon. Read More... |
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Baboons are raiding homes and stealing food in Windhoek's informal settlements - and authorities say humans are largely to blame.
Communities like Goreangab and Havana have borne the brunt of the intrusions, with residents reporting destroyed property and escalating safety fears for children and the elderly.
The crisis has been directly linked to poor waste management, with exposed food waste erasing the boundary between wild and urban spaces.
The situation prompted intervention by environment ministry officials, who previously culled several baboons in Goreangab - a measure widely acknowledged as unsustainable.
The relaunched National Cleanup Namibia Campaign, tied to World Cleanup Day, is now pushing communities toward responsible disposal, coordinated clean-ups, and lasting behavioural change.
Officials point to Windhoek losing its cleanest city in Africa title to Kigali in 2016 as a sobering reminder of what's at stake - for public health, tourism, and community safety alike. Read More... |
Windhoek is giving residents a reason to ditch their cars for a morning, offering free rides across its municipal bus network as part of Zero Emission Week. The no-cost journeys run for a four-hour window on designated Hop-On, Hop-Off routes through the capital, with city staff handing out promotional gifts to passengers along the way. The event doubles as Public Transport Services Awareness Day, and officials are using it to show habitual drivers just how practical the city's buses can be. The broader goal is a meaningful nudge toward greener commuting habits and a measurable dip in urban emissions. Anyone looking to join or find specific route details can reach the city's public transport office directly by phone. |
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Namibia's hospitality sector has crossed a meaningful threshold, with national room occupancy reaching 69.53% in August 2026 - surpassing both the prior year's 69.05% and the pre-pandemic benchmark of 67.18% set in August 2019. Notably, this was achieved across just 93 reporting properties, down from 128 before the pandemic, meaning individual hotels are filling more beds than ever before. The Northern Region led all areas at 76.28% occupancy, powered by peak safari season converging with the region's traditional wedding calendar. The Coastal Region posted its strongest August on record at 71.77%, reflecting rising interest in Namibia's Atlantic coastline as a stand-alone destination. The Central Region dipped to 54.83%, largely due to a sharp pullback in corporate and conference travel, which fell from 35% of beds sold to under 4%. With new visa-on-arrival policies in place and two of four regions posting year-on-year gains, Namibia's tourism recovery is looking less like a rebound and more like a rebuild. Read More... |
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Thousands of Windhoek residents track one document above almost all others - the weekly dam bulletin issued by the Namibia Water Corporation.
The combined levels of the Swakoppoort, Von Bach, and Omatako dams have dropped sharply, hovering in the mid-fifties percentagewise - compared to well above 85% during the same period last season.
The difference is stark, and the consequences are real.
Goreangab Dam has offered some relief by reaching full capacity, while authorities have managed supply pressure through strategic transfers — most notably from Swakoppoort to Von Bach Dam.
Bulletin indicators such as NR, e, and w flag missing, estimated, or weather-affected readings - details that shape how officials plan distribution across a strained network.
Crucially, published inflow figures exclude evaporation and abstraction losses, meaning on-the-ground water availability is often tighter than reported.
For Windhoek communities, each dam level figure represents far more than a statistic - it reflects drinking water security, agricultural survival, and economic stability. Read More... |
☀️ Partly Sunny & Warm Ahead |
 Windhoek can expect a warm Thursday with a high of 28°C and partly sunny skies. Temperatures will remain pleasant through the weekend, reaching around 29°C, with mostly sunny conditions from Sunday onwards. 🌤️☀️ |
Joke Of The Day |
Why do Windhoek event planners never worry about their guests leaving early? Because once you've had the braai, the live music, and the view of those endless Namibian skies — nobody can remember where they parked, let alone how to go home. |
This newsletter sponsored by |
Nexium Digital |
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This newsletter sponsored by |
Hansen and Hansen |
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Lael Sunday Treats: Homemade Goodness, Made with Love |
There is something special about the taste of homemade baking - the comforting aromas, familiar flavours and the feeling that every bite was made with care. Lael Sunday Treats brings that warmth to life with a delicious range of freshly baked homemade treats, proudly made in Windhoek.
With the heartfelt tagline “Made with love, just for you”, Lael Sunday Treats is all about creating quality baked goods that are perfect for family gatherings, Sunday lunches, special occasions, gifting or simply treating yourself.
Among the tempting offerings is the beautifully crafted Lemoen Ringkoek, a generous homemade orange ring cake priced at N$280, offering a delightful combination of citrus flavour and classic homemade goodness. For those who enjoy a traditional South African favourite, the Semel Beskuit is available at N$50, making it an ideal companion to a morning cup of coffee or tea.
Lael Sunday Treats is also celebrating with an exciting Opening Special. Customers can enjoy four different flavours - Dadel Koek, Appeltert, Peppermint Tart and Malva. The special includes four boxes, one of each flavour, for only N$200. It is a wonderful opportunity to sample a selection of Lael's delicious homemade creations and discover a new favourite.
For something a little more indulgent, the Beetwortel Ringkoek is available for N$450, offering a beautifully decorated take on a classic homemade cake. And for cookie lovers, the 5kg Cookie Bucket, priced at N$350, provides plenty of sweet treats to share - or keep all to yourself!
What makes Lael Sunday Treats stand out is its focus on freshly baked products, thoughtful presentation and the simple joy of homemade food. Every order is baked fresh, with an emphasis on bringing customers something that feels personal, delicious and made especially for them.
Whether you're looking for something sweet for the office, a dessert for the family, treats for a celebration, or a thoughtful homemade gift, Lael Sunday Treats offers something for every occasion.
Support local. Enjoy homemade. And treat yourself to something made with love.
Lael Sunday Treats - Homemade Bakes, made fresh for every order.
WhatsApp/Call: +264 81 222 9012 |
Interesting Facts |
Windhoek is one of Africa's most underrated business destinations - and there are some genuinely surprising reasons why.
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Nutrition for Growth 2026 |
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Nutrition for Growth 2026 is a premier global event bringing together leaders, policymakers, scientists, and advocates dedicated to ending malnutrition and advancing food security worldwide. This is a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, bold commitments, and collaborative solutions that drive real change. Join a dynamic community of changemakers as they share insights, forge partnerships, and shape the future of nutrition on a global scale. Whether you are a seasoned expert or new to the field, this event promises to inspire and inform. |
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Break The Ice |
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Join us for Break The Ice, a fun and exciting event designed to help you connect with new people in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to expand your social circle or simply enjoy a great time, this event promises plenty of laughs and good conversation. Come ready to mingle, play icebreaker activities, and make memorable connections with fellow attendees. It's the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and meet some amazing people. Don't miss out on this fantastic gathering - come break the ice with us! |
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Simonis Storm DTS Scavenger Hunt 2026 |
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Get ready for an exciting adventure with the Simonis Storm DTS Scavenger Hunt 2026! This thrilling event promises fun, challenge, and teamwork as participants race to complete clues and tasks across the course. Gather your team and put your problem-solving skills to the test in this action-packed scavenger hunt experience. A great opportunity to bond, explore, and compete for glory. Don't miss out on one of Namibia's most anticipated events of the year - mark your calendar and secure your spot today! |
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UV Resin Art Workshop |
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Join us for a hands-on UV Resin Art Workshop where creativity comes to life! Discover the magic of UV resin as you craft stunning, glossy pieces under expert guidance. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned crafter, this workshop offers a fun and relaxed environment to explore a unique art form. All materials and tools are provided, so you just need to bring your imagination. Don't miss this opportunity to take home a beautiful, one-of-a-kind creation you made yourself! |
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Meat, Wine & Chill |
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Join us for Meat, Wine & Chill, a relaxed and indulgent evening celebrating great food and fine wine. Gather with friends and fellow food lovers for a laid-back atmosphere filled with delicious cuts of meat paired with carefully selected wines. Sit back, unwind, and enjoy a memorable night of good company and great flavors. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply love a perfectly grilled meal, this is the event for you. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to chill out and treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience. |
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Glow & Roll – Neon Fog Skate |
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Get ready to light up the rink at Glow & Roll – Neon Fog Skate, an electrifying skating event bursting with neon lights and atmospheric fog effects. Lace up your skates and glide through a dazzling, glow-in-the-dark experience set to a pumping soundtrack. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just looking for a fun night out, this event promises an unforgettable sensory adventure for all ages. Gather your friends and come ready to roll in style under the neon glow. |
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The Village Market |
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Step into the lively Village Sunday Market, a thriving hub of local entrepreneurship nestled in the heart of Windhoek. Every Sunday, talented small business owners gather to showcase a diverse range of high-quality products, from handcrafted goods to unique finds. Beyond the shopping, the market is a celebration of community and creativity - filled with music, warmth, and good energy. Talents are shared, hearts are touched, and the vibrant atmosphere draws visitors of all ages together. Whether you're looking to support local businesses or simply soak up the Sunday spirit, The Village Market promises an unforgettable experience. Come join us and be part of something special. |
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Quote Of The Day |
"Your customer is whoever walks through the door next - treat that moment like the whole business depends on it, because it does." - Harvey Mackay |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: 1952 |