| THURS, OCT 15, 2026|Issue #18|WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA |
Trivia Question❓What was the name of the Nama chief after whom Windhoek is often said to have derived its Khoekhoegowab name, with "Windhuk" loosely reflecting the "smoky corner" or hot springs of his settlement? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Bank Windhoek has launched a next-generation digital procurement platform powered by SAP Ariba, becoming the first fully locally owned institution in Namibia to adopt the globally trusted system.
At its core is a self-service supplier registration portal where businesses can independently build and manage their profiles - keeping company information current and accessible at all times.
For Windhoek's small and medium-sized enterprises, the timing couldn't be more significant.
The platform directly lowers entry barriers to formal procurement, connecting local vendors to buyers across more than 190 countries through the SAP Business Network.
Registered suppliers may also gain visibility into open sourcing events - including RFQs, formal tenders, and reverse auctions - from other potential customers aligned with their scope of work.
Bank Windhoek has championed SME development since 2000, and this launch extends that legacy into Namibia's digital future.
Visibility, officials stress, is where opportunity begins - and local businesses are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Read More... |
24 readers are talking about this | Top first |
MA | Martha Amunyela · 2 weeks ago not a guarantee of contracts but at least the door is open now
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The EU Film Festival Windhoek returns this season with an ambitious lineup of screenings, community outreach, and industry training running from 20 October to 19 November.
The Goethe-Institut Namibia hosts weekly Tuesday and Thursday evening screenings, with doors opening at 18h00 for complimentary cocktails before feature films begin at 19h00.
Eight EU member states - including Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, and Poland - each bring a distinct cinematic voice to Windhoek screens.
Ireland, holding the current EU Council presidency, opens the festival with the feature film Mrs Robinson.
This edition reaches beyond its main venue, with a children's screening on 6 November and community events at the Hisa Centre and College of the Arts Katutura campus.
From 9 to 13 November, a five-day industry workshop at the Franco-Namibian Cultural Centre will tackle sound design and co-production, backed by Estonia's Baltic Film, Media and Arts School.
All Goethe-Institut screenings are free and open to the public. Read More... |
8 readers are talking about this | Top first |
TS | T. Shikongo · 2 weeks ago Mrs Robinson as the opening film, Ireland knows what they are doing
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Every rainy season puts Windhoek's informal settlement residents at serious risk - and early 2025 made that devastatingly clear.
Flash floods ripped through Otjomuise, displacing over a thousand residents in a single afternoon.
Blocked drainage channels and families living in riverbeds turned manageable runoff into a destructive surge.
With roughly one-third of Windhoek's population living in informal housing - often in environmentally fragile zones - city leadership acknowledged that emergency response alone could no longer address what is fundamentally a structural crisis.
The response is the City of Windhoek Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy and Action Plan 2026–2030, a five-year council-approved blueprint shifting focus from reaction to prevention.
Key commitments include a dedicated disaster risk reduction fund, upgraded early warning systems, and proactive informal settlement upgrading - improving drainage, formalising land use, and relocating the most vulnerable households.
As the city now recognises: secured homes build resilient communities. Read More... |
11 readers are talking about this | Top first |
FN | Frieda Nakamhela · 2 weeks ago my neighborhood in Otjomuise still has damaged fences from those floods. Nothing fixed yet
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Warriors Football Academy advanced in the MTC HopSol Youth League knockout stage after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Windhoek Gymnasium at Trustco United Football Field.
The result was enough to send Warriors through on aggregate, ending Gymnasium's campaign for another season.
Trailing at half-time, the Katutura-based academy pushed forward with purpose, earning the equaliser and holding firm until the final whistle.
Coach Kauningua Kukuri praised his squad's character under pressure, though he flagged ongoing logistical challenges - transport difficulties and long travel distances placing his players at a disadvantage before kick-off.
He urged organisers to factor geography into fixture scheduling, noting that underused facilities closer to Katutura could make a meaningful difference.
Gymnasium coach Ephraim Tjihonge was reflective in defeat, acknowledging that balancing school commitments with competitive football limits his side's preparation time against full-time academies.
Still, Gymnasium reached the knockout stage across multiple age groups - a genuine achievement given the constraints.
Tjihonge has bigger targets ahead, including the Gothia Cup in Sweden and fixtures in South Africa. Read More... |
14 readers are talking about this | Top first |
CA | Calvin_WDK · 2 weeks ago Trustco United field is far from Katutura, that drive alone before a knockout game is tough
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Bank Windhoek has launched the SAP Ariba procurement platform, becoming the first fully Namibian-owned institution to adopt the globally recognised system.
The move positions the bank - and Windhoek itself - at the leading edge of corporate digital transformation in the country.
Through a single, streamlined portal, suppliers can register, manage profiles, and engage with sourcing opportunities including quotation requests, formal tenders, and reverse auctions.
The platform operates across a global network spanning 190 countries, connecting buyers and suppliers at scale.
For Namibia's SME sector, which has long struggled to break into formal corporate supply chains, the structured supplier registration portal could be a genuine game-changer.
Officials stress this is about inclusive, transparent procurement - not just a technology upgrade.
Small and medium-sized businesses across Windhoek are encouraged to register via the bank's updated procurement webpage, though approval and tender invitations remain subject to internal criteria. Read More... |
9 readers are talking about this | Top first |
JI | Joseph Iipinge · 2 weeks ago my small cleaning company has been trying to get into corporate supply chains for years. Going to try this
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The Windhoek City Kapana Festival has been cancelled for 2026, with the City of Windhoek citing Namibia's devastating foot-and-mouth disease crisis as the reason behind the difficult decision.
The festival, originally scheduled for 30 October 2026, centres on the open-air grilling and communal enjoyment of meat - making it impossible to proceed under sweeping national veterinary restrictions.
Namibia confirmed its first FMD outbreak in its primary commercial livestock zone in over 60 years, after cattle samples tested positive in the Karasburg State Veterinary District in late September 2026.
Authorities responded with a nationwide livestock movement ban, a halt on cloven-hoofed animal slaughter, and a full suspension of meat exports - measures that rendered the festival untenable.
Kapana vendors across the capital have been directly impacted, with meat permits already suspended ahead of the announcement.
The city has expressed regret and pointed to 2027 as the next possible window - though whether that holds will depend entirely on the veterinary situation on the ground. Read More... |
17 readers are talking about this | Top first |
RU | ruth_wdh · 2 weeks ago solidarity with all the kapana vendors. These are real people losing real income
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☀️Windhoek Set for Another Sunny, Warm Day! |
 🌡️ CAPTION: Clear skies and plenty of sunshine are on the forecast for Windhoek, with temperatures reaching 32°C today. Expect warm conditions throughout the day, with a light breeze and no rain expected. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy the beautiful Namibian sunshine! 🇳🇦☀️ #WindhoekWeather #Namibia #SunnySkies #TheWindhoekSpotlight |
Joke Of The Day |
Why did the entrepreneur in Windhoek refuse to leave the office party early? Because someone told him networking events are where you make your best connections - and he hadn't charged his phone yet. |
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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 punches well above its weight as a business hub - and the city has some genuinely surprising quirks worth knowing.
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Lead One Day |
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Lead One Day is an inspiring event designed to bring together leaders and aspiring leaders for a day of learning, connection, and growth. Hosted through NamEvents, this gathering offers attendees the opportunity to engage with thought-provoking sessions and meaningful conversations. Whether you are an experienced leader or just beginning your journey, this event promises to equip you with fresh perspectives and practical tools to lead with confidence and purpose. |
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Youth Green Industries Summit |
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Join us for the Youth Green Industries Summit, a dynamic event bringing together young leaders, innovators, and industry professionals to explore sustainable solutions and green career opportunities. This summit is designed to inspire and equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to drive environmental and economic change. Expect engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and presentations focused on green industries and sustainable development. Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, or professional, this event offers valuable insights into the future of green economies. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded peers and thought leaders who are shaping a more sustainable world. |
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The Balcony Africa - Namibia |
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Get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Balcony Africa - Namibia! This exciting event brings people together for a great time at the Wanderers Sports Club in Namibia. Mark your calendar for Saturday, 17 October 2026, and come join the fun. Whether you're a local or visiting, this is one event you won't want to miss. Stay tuned for more details and be sure to grab your spot early. Check WhatsOn Namibia for the latest updates as they become available. |
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Hollard Hearts Foundation Cycling Festival |
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Join the Hollard Hearts Foundation Cycling Festival, a spirited community event bringing together cycling enthusiasts and supporters for a great cause. Ride alongside fellow participants while raising funds and awareness for the Hearts Foundation's vital work. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this festival promises an exciting and rewarding experience for all involved. Come out and make a difference while enjoying the thrill of the ride. |
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The Village Market |
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The Village Market is a vibrant gathering place where community members come together to shop, explore, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Expect a wonderful selection of local vendors, fresh goods, and unique finds that celebrate the best of what the area has to offer. Whether you're browsing for fresh produce, handcrafted items, or simply soaking in the energy of a bustling market, The Village Market promises a warm and welcoming experience for all who attend. |
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Quote Of The Day |
"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." - Alice Walker |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Jan Jonker Afrikaner |