The government of South Sudan has launched the process for a new round of peace talks with the opposition coalition, which would be mediated by Kenya.

The launch took place at State House in Nairobi, witnessed by Presidents William Ruto, Namibia’s Nangolo Mbumba, Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, and Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi.

Other stakeholders include the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mousa Faki Mahamat, and regional bodies.

President Hage Geingob says his hope is that the old-age pension grant will be increased to N$2000 or more.

Dr. Geingob says his desire is to see this happen before he leaves the presidential chambers.

Currently, over 202,294 pensioners receive the monthly old-age grant.

The Namibian leader recalled the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which prompted the government to enact policies and provide fiscal support to businesses and cash grants to more than 500,000 Namibians.

President Hage Geingob says it is clear that the year being entered, 2024, promises the delivery of tangible outcomes that have been carefully curated throughout.

Dr. Geingob christened 2024 the Year of Expectations and the Year of Elections, which will be a new beginning for the Namibian House.

The Head of State outlined these in his New Year's Message.

The public health situation in Namibia remains stable and under control, and the government is pleased with the World Health Organisation's (WHO) performance.

This assurance was provided by the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, during the courtesy call by the WHO Chief at State House.

In the past, Namibia experienced an overburden of communicable diseases such as HIV, TB, and malaria.

This has seen the government increase investments in the health sector to bring infection rates under control and ensure access to treatment.

The Minister in the Presidency, Christine ||Hoebes, has appealed to Japan to provide assistance in training Namibians in emerging sectors such as Green Hydrogen, oil, and gas.

||Hoebes, along with other Cabinet Ministers, held discussions with the visiting Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry and his delegation at State House.

Japan ranks among the top Asian countries with advanced industries in technology required for the production of energy, including green hydrogen and other sources of energy.