Oil & Gas: QatarEnergy says its Merlin-1X well in Namibia’s PEL 0039 delivered the most promising results yet, boosting confidence in the Orange Basin; it follows earlier discoveries and involves partners Shell and NAMCOR. Energy Security & Costs: Namibia’s petroleum oils imports led in April, with the country spending N$4.4bn more than it earned from exports; the report links the pressure to Middle East shipping risks around the Strait of Hormuz. Local Governance & Housing: City of Windhoek engagement shows Hadino Hishongwa residents backing formalisation, agreeing to relocate structures in road reserves to unlock roads, electricity and services. Water Infrastructure: New NamWater board members are urged to prioritise unfinished projects, including northern pipeline replacements and canal rehabilitation, to cut losses and improve reliability. Public Finance & Pensions: PM Ngurare calls on GIPF to invest more visibly in Namibia after past overseas losses, while GIPF discloses its stake in Goreangab Mall. SME & Youth Finance: MPs push for tighter controls on microlenders’ direct salary deductions; PM also urges “order with me” operators to use the National Youth Development Fund. Business & Telecom: Alexforbes starts consolidating fund administration platforms across Namibia, South Africa and Botswana to cut costs and improve service. Digital & Infrastructure Risk: Cable theft and vandalism continue to disrupt telecom services, adding cost pressure as Namibia drives digital transformation.