Buchter News » Issue 224

Build A Healthy Self Esteem

admin — Wed, 27 May 2009 11:33:58 +0000

By Ndafa Alpheus

See yourself as having value. See yourself as having the key to what is needed in this world. Treat yourself with the highest respect. No one will treat you with more respect than you treat yourself. Employ self-discipline to follow through with any endeavor. Give yourself positive support by praising yourself for doing a good job, for doing what you do, and for doing things the best you can. “You can do it.” “You are good at everything you do.” “You did a good job.”

Focus on the positive—avoid focusing on the negative. Focus on the glass is half full—avoid focusing on the glass is half empty. Give yourself praise and pats on the back for your achievements— no matter how small. Focus on the process of goal achievement, avoid bemoaning everything you need to do—your goals come to fruition more quickly. Be persistent in everything you do—persistence is the only path to goal achievement.

Praise others for their accomplishments— when you compliment others you build your own self-esteem, because it’s impossible to sincerely praise others without feeling better about yourself. Give as much as you want to receive—what goes around comes around. Take pride in, who you are. Take pride in, what you do.

“Life is not easy for any of us. We must have perseverance and above all, self-esteem in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained.” – Marie Curie.

In Thirty days you will notice subtle, but powerful differences in the out-come of your endeavors and you will notice you are feeling empowered, confident and focused on goals and achievements.

Good News To The Poor!

admin — Wed, 27 May 2009 11:29:19 +0000

By Reverend Jan Scholtz

Poverty is a wretched thing. Yes, in the monastic tradition we praise simplicity of life. We say people should make do with what they have, not seeking to be swallowed up by materialistic desire. But we have NO RIGHT to glamorize poverty. Very often, many of us, from forums in the international community stand out and glorify, almost make poverty sound as if it is an extraordinary wonderful thing. No, if it is that wonderful thing “then go, sell all that thou hast and give it to the poor” – if it is that wonderful share and do with very little. Do with less that what you have.

Where do we find our poor? There are many among us. They are lonely in the townships. They are the unwanted, and with modernization and the coming of modern trends, the unwanted aged. There are those who have no opportunities for education. There are many who are unfulfilled in our world. There are those among us who do not know what life is and have to make do with an existence. They are the poor ones. They are the deprived ones. They are the disinherited ones. Those who are pushed around, whether they be white or black. Anybody who “as much does this to these my little ones, has done it unto me”.

Of course we must do all what we can to alleviate and eradicate poverty. We have to do all that we can to enhance life to enable those who are deprived in fact to rediscover their dignity which they have lost through deprivation. I am not saying that we should be captives or prisoners of the rat race. I am not saying that we should not be wanting the latest gadget that comes to the market. I am saying, find yourself and find the things that make you content you for in the end contentment will not be achieved by cluttering your life with possessions. It is when in the solitude of your lives, in the quietness of your heart, in your searching and in your questing, that you encounter God. It is then that we will begin to see things in perspective.

The community/we should then be enabling people to come alive! Not to be frightened by poverty, nor the challenges of our community/ Nation, but to say we will go in there in the steps of the Master who lived simply and had nowhere to lay His Head. We go to those who are at this time so brutalized either by crime or through violence, those who have to live in the face of the lack of trust and hatred.

There we will have to meet the poor and bring to them their sight. We must get them to proclaim their own liberation, they must be free. The Community, if it is God-centred and Spirit filled will be able to do these things without hesitation.

So it is only in that kind of spirit, in an appreciation of the reality and the context and the conditions under which the poor live; It is out of an appreciation of knowing exactly what the agonies of the poor are, it is by close identification and giving ourselves in compassion, not through condescending pity – that we can in the power of Jesus Christ, proclaim the GOOD NEWS TO THE POOR!

Lüderitz Develops

admin — Wed, 27 May 2009 11:25:12 +0000

The Waterfront Development Company (Pty) Ltd. Released their “Waterfront Phase II” plan several months ago. This plan includes redeveloping a substantial portion of the coastal area.

The plans include a 4 star hotel, 40 two to three bedroom residential apartments and a retail venue in the area from Ritzi’s all the way up hafenstreet towards the football stadium. Another part of the plan is to redevelop the old power station, which is now considered to be an unwelcome smudge on the Lüderitz street view.

“This project aims to strengthen the tourism industry. The town is in need of such a project. The problem we aim to solve is: how we can keep tourists longer in Lüderitz, because tourism is the future of this town.” says the CEO of this project, Mr. Fluksman, “We will solve this problem with this project.”

It is estimated that this project will make a 50% increase in the tourism industry in Lüderitz within the first three years. The project will also deliver 1200 jobs during the 2 years of construction and another 350 permanent jobs once the project is up and running.

The costs of a project like this? Between 350 and 400 million Namibian dollars, the majority of which will be paid by private investors.

It is now up to the consultants to share their view upon the project. They should finalize their reports over the next two months, after which the project can receive the final go ahead!

Film Commission Promotes Namibia On Location Trade Show in Los Angeles

admin — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:18:47 +0000

For the first time Namibia was represented at the world’s biggest film location fair in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, this year. A delegation of the Namibia Film Commission (NFC) and local filmmakers promoted Namibia as an attractive destination to expert visitors from the movie business. The trade show featured almost 200 film commissions from 35 different countries.

“Our presence at this important event constitutes the peak of our latest achievements in introducing and promoting our beautiful country to international film producers”, says Ricardo Mouton, Chief Operations Officer of NFC. He notes that while Namibia possesses all necessary features for a flourishing film industry – gorgeous landscapes, high-quality infrastructure, excellent climate, and low production costs – the sector has not reached its full potential yet. Recent years have seen several major productions as the Stone Age spectacle 10,000 BC by renowned German director Roland Emmerich or the remake of the classic Flight of the Phoenix but there are possibilities for many more international movies to be made in Namibia.

One of the major obstacles for making Namibia a preferential film location appears to be a lack of exposure. Guy Nockels, CEO of local production company Namib Film, notes that many producers have merely a limited idea of the vast amount of possibilities Namibia has on offer for filmmakers. As a result the Namibian economy has not yet benefited much from foreign movie productions. “Many producers bring their entire equipment and staff from abroad. They are not aware of domestic service providers that offer similar services of equal quality at lower rates”, Nockels says.

In order to bring the local film sector to the awareness of foreign producers, the Namibia Film Commission, three local film companies and the consulting company SMEs Compete have entered a Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with the German Development Service (Deutscher Entwicklungsdienst, DED). Together they strive to elevate the Namibian film sector by actively promoting the country as a film location and supporting young Namibian filmmakers. Mouton of the NFC explains: “The first step was to put us on the map of foreign location scouts. To this end the NFC launched a new website last month that conveys all necessary information for the interested producer.”

Pilots Paradise, another project partner, produced and contributed an extensive location video in form of a DVD and helped developing an information brochure. Both items were in high demand during the location show. Helga Poennighaus, a director of Pilots Paradise, was very satisfied with the feedback she received during the fair. “Most visitors were very impressed by our stand and more than 260 of them showed interest in Namibia as a location for future productions. Among them were numerous big shots from Warner Bros. Pictures, Sony and 20th Century Fox. In this sense, our initiative has already been a success”. The big topic at this year’s trade fair was incentives schemes for movie producers. “Many countries promote themselves as a film location by means of strong financial incentives”, says Vickson Hangula of NFC. “We also have a system in place that reimburses VAT to foreign production companies. But so far we are not actively using this tool to attract potential productions. In the future we aim to make this instrument much more visible.” He adds that the Namibian presence at this important location trade show has been a great learning experience for all participants and they are all intending to return next year.

Sailing Pretty

admin — Tue, 12 May 2009 11:51:49 +0000

For the historically inclined traveller Luderitz offers a wealth of interesting activities and sights, from its German architecture (unsurprisingly rather popular with German visitors) to the ghost town of Kolmanskop that lies a few kilometres in land. However, for those who prefer entertainment of a more up to date nature the daily yacht trips that tour the coastline may be just the ticket. Our roving reporter took a spin in the Sturmvogel, owned by Gunther Berens.

At first glance Gunther does not strike the observer as being a typical old man of the sea character; for a start he lacks the customary flowing beard and salty yellow southwester, instead sporting a completely bald head and an unusual taste in hats. However, don’t let that put you off as underneath the clean-shaven exterior Gunther holds a wealth of knowledge on all aspects of maritime life large enough to rival Davy Jones’s.

Stepping aboard his boat, The Sturmvogel, Gunther spread a large map of the Luderitz coastline upon the deck and traced the journeys route with a long weather- beaten finger; “We’ll travel out of the harbour and sail up past Diaz Point, where there’s a seal colony, hugging the coastline up to Halifax Island to see the penguins”, he grinned, “penguins are always a favourite with visitors!” The boats route then turns back on itself, sailing towards Agate beach and the hulking sand dunes before coming back into harbour. Folding up the map Gunther smiles again, motions for us to sit on a cushioned bench and pulls up the main sail, we were off!

Having lived in Luderitz for a fair few months now, I feel fairly confident in saying that I know the town relatively well, but the view of the harbour from the stern of the Sturmvogel was one I had never seen before; like a picture postcard the town lay spread out and colourful against the rocky greyness of the desert looking so pretty that not even the dusty gravel roads and disused power station could spoil it.

As we set out for open water Gunter struck up a running commentary on the landscape, the animal life and the weather, pausing only to ask a couple of friendly questions and adjust the little boats course. Although Luderitz is famed for its high wind speeds, the days when it is calm and sunny should gain just as much notoriety, and dangling my feet over the side of the boat and watching a pod of dolphins follow our course is anyone’s idea of paradise. My happiness was truly complete, however, when Gunther twinkled his seaman’s eyes and produced a lunch box full of food, including a warm meat pie and a pickle- bliss!

Sturmvogel tours cater for groups as large as 10, provides blankets and a CD of photos of the boat and the coastline and includes lunch (complete with pickles). Morning tours usually last 4 hours and sundowner tours last 3.

Karate Zen Lüderitz Club

admin — Tue, 12 May 2009 11:47:07 +0000

On Saturday, 25 April, the Luderitz Karate-Zen Club had a grading at its dojo in the TransNamib complex in Luderitz. Presiding over the grading were Sensei Bonnie Kabozu, founder and instructor of the club, and Sensei Freddie Mwiya, who was visiting from Oshakati. This was the first grading of 2009. All 25 students trained vigorously in the weeks prior to the grading so that they could display their skills and be awarded with a new rank or belt. Walking into the dojo, one could see a crowd of concerned friends and family watching attentively as the karate students shouted out and moved with speed and power.

The grading itself began in the morning and lasted for 3 hours, during which the students were tested on their mastery of numerous basic exercises, katas (long combinations of movements), and self defence techniques. Afterwards, when the individual scores were being tabulated, Sensei Freddie led an additional hour of sparring drills and actual sparring, called kumite. Before the results of the grading were announced, Sensei Freddie performed two impressive black belt katas to inspire the class.

It was announced that all of the students, veteran and newcomer alike, performed well during their tests and the two Senseis were very happy with the result. “Stay focused, train hard, and you too can become a champion,” said Sensei Freddie. “You youngsters must tell yourself you can become an African and then a World Champion.”

It was then that the new ranks and belts were awarded, with some students advancing to Yellow 2nd Rank, others to acquire an Orange Belt, and one skilled student even skipped a rank to receive a Green Belt. Sensei Freddie remarked that the advancements were well deserved, especially because the students’ “discipline was excellent, very excellent.” Sensei Bonnie stated that he was very proud of his students, and Sensei Freddie agreed, saying that he was anxious to return next time to see even more improvement. All students, friends, and family were happy with the outcome, with most commenting that it was the best grading the Luderitz Karate- Zen Club has ever had. The Luderitz- Karate-Zen Club would like to thank the students, board members, and Senseis Bonnie and Freddie for their hard work and dedication. The members will continue their strong training, as many are excited to participate in upcoming events such as the International Karate Zen Championships in Cape Town from 8 – 9 May, and the Karate Zen Namibian National Championships in Oshakati on 18 July.

Lüderitz Talent Performs At The Nest Hotel

admin — Tue, 12 May 2009 11:42:41 +0000

Friday the 24th of April – The Nest hotel is occupied by a group of children and a piano, all placed in the diamond hall to attend Retta Calitz’s concert. This concert is a result of the piano lessons she offers for children, they demonstrate what they have been learning over the last few months.

The evening begins with a medley of well known songs and an opening word by the evenings host Crispin Clay. After that it is time for individual and group performances of the kids. A room full of proud parents applaud enthusiastically as the kids prove that Lüderitz is filled with musical talent.

Also performing on this night is Anna Tomson and Anne Stokvis, with a bonus performance. The night ends with a finale performance. All the children are involved and drum on buckets and toms. And the night comes to an end with a delicious snack buffet.

Bellies Full At Bogenfels

admin — Tue, 12 May 2009 11:37:51 +0000

Named after the great stone archway hidden in the depths of the Sperrgebiet territory, Bogenfels Restaurant is one of Luderitz’s lesser known gems. Located along the road heading out of town, the restaurant boasts a friendly ambience and simple, classic decor. Each of the meticulously laid tables is separated by partitions of deep red wall, allowing a sense of privacy whilst you eat. One of the most unique features of Bogenfels however, is it’s facilities for children; tucked away into the corner is an array of toys and games perfect for distracting the kids when Mum and Dad want to have a quiet meal.

Since February of this year Bogenfels has been under new management and offers one of the largest menus in town along with excellent and friendly service. We decided it was the perfect time to check it out!

Bacon, Cheese and Garlic Roll, N$30: A simple but very tasty starter, the Bacon, cheese and garlic roll gives you no more than the name implies. It is a decent sized to fairly big starter.

Garlic Snails with Fishermans Loaf, N$35: I first attempted to eat snails in France two years ago and, after the initial revulsion at the notion that I was munching on a plate of slimy molluscs, the garlic taste had me hooked. I am happy to say that Bogenfels’ snail dish did nothing to quell my love; the food was neither too greasy nor too garlicky whilst the bread that accompanied it, although perhaps a little dry, was perfect for mopping up the sauce.

Bogenfels Style Pork Rib, N$90: A rib usually stands or falls with the marinading, which is in this case outstanding. The rib is juicy, with a lovely sauce. At N$90 the rib offers an incredible value to money ratio, for it is certain to fill even those with a bigger appetite. The Bogenfels style pork rib gets my recommendation, when dining out at Bogenfels.

Thai Beef Salad, flame grilled beef slices, sweet Thai sauce, jalapeno peppers, lemon, cherry tomatoes and fresh mint, N$40: Since living in Namibia it is rare that I should chose a salad over a plate of meat but faced with the opportunity to sample an oriental dish I couldn’t refuse. My plate came piled high with soft, thin strips of beef, sweet cherry tomatoes and an unexpectedly large amount of onion. Although the dish wouldn’t be my regular choice I recommend it to anyone who just wants a break from a meat overdose.

Break The Silence

admin — Tue, 12 May 2009 11:14:02 +0000

Written by Gregory De Vries

Sexual and reproductive rights apply to all individuals regardless of HIV status. Yet more often than not the rights of HIV positive women are not recognized or given priority.

Why in the world would I say a thing like this? Many men and women may ask. Cultural practices often tightly restrict and sometimes control the decisions that women make regarding choices when it comes to sex .In many traditions women still do not have a lot to say about whether they want intercourse or not at all. With the high number infected people it shows that a women can not tell her husband to use a condom. If she does that a man may ask the woman: are you sleeping around? Is that why you what me to use a condom? At the same time you see so many women that are positive but still get pregnant. You ask yourself then is it ignorance or do most women have no choice. I am not saying that HIV positive women and men should not have children but if you are positive speak to your doctor first. Let me stress this – I am not trying to make men look like the bad guys, but I think it is about time we stop use our culture to make it right for men to have multiple sex partners. If you are planning to have a child, pretty please, speak to your doctor and don’t say “the condom broke” – that is so out of date!!

Lüderitz Wind Farm Not Yet Under Construction

admin — Tue, 12 May 2009 11:04:45 +0000

Over the past twenty years Global Warming has become a worldwide buzz word; millions of dollars have been poured into research, prevention and, perhaps most importantly, renewable energy sources. However, it is only recently that global warming has fallen into the spotlight in Southern Africa which is why The Buchter News is proud to announce that Luderitz has been chosen as the site for one of Namibia’s first ever wind turbine farms.

Prior to the new development of wind farms Namibia’s power supply came largely from South Africa; approximately 60% of all energy is imported from RSA whilst the remaining 40% comes from a hydro-electric powerstation near Ruacana and a coal fired power station. However, despite Namibia’s dependance on South Africa, there has previously never been adaquate funding to explore other means of energy production.

All this changed in 1993 when the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) began assessing Luderit’z potential wind energy production as part of its ‘Promotion for the Use of Renewable Energy Sources in Namibia’program. This evaluation led to the publication of a report in May 1997 which stated that Luderitz has ‘great potential’in the production of wind energy.

Several years later a Dutch based organisation Áeolus Power Generation partnered up with the Namibian group United Africa Group and began planning a wind turbine project. The Dutch-Namibian group gained permission to begin building in early 2007 and the investment will result in the erection of 102 turbines along the Namibian coastline, which will eventually generate around 25% of all Namibia’s electricity supply. In late 2008 40 turbines intended for Luderitz were shipped to Namibia and are now waiting for construction to begin. The project is costing a vast N$1.1 billion and is partially being funded by a grant from the Dutch Government. All power generated will be sold to Nampower.

It has not yet been confirmed when construction of the wind farm will commence but it is hoped that the development will begin later this year. An industrial windturbine.