Housing Crunch: Namibia needs about N$45 billion over 10 years to tackle the housing backlog, with economists pointing to mortgage securitisation and liquidity facilities as options to “revamp the whole system” rather than relying on a housing bond alone. Repo Rate Watch: The Bank of Namibia kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.75%, citing subdued growth and a relatively calm inflation outlook, even as inflation has been edging up. Creative Economy Push: The Creative Industry Institute Africa launched a mapping campaign for the 2026/27 Creative Industry Guide, adding a digital directory to help creatives register and be seen as a business engine, not just culture. Digital Sovereignty: Pressure is mounting for Namibia to build stronger digital infrastructure, as seen in Nigeria’s push for local cloud capacity to cut costs and reduce foreign currency outflows. Cuba Embargo Politics: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah renewed Namibia’s call for the unconditional lifting of the US embargo on Cuba and says the blockade harms ordinary people; a solidarity drive has raised about N$700,000. Phosphate vs Fishing: Swapo Youth League is calling for the environmental clearance for Namibian Marine Phosphate to be reviewed and set aside, warning of risks to marine life and jobs tied to fishing. Competition Regulation: Namibia’s competition watchdog is reviewing merger notification thresholds and filing fees to reduce burden on smaller deals. Consular & Trade Links: The US appointed Brandon Hudspeth as Consul General in Lagos; he previously served in Windhoek and says priorities include expanding trade, investment, and innovation. Human Trafficking Alert: Zambezi recorded 14 human trafficking cases over eight years, with victims often lured into forced criminality and exploitation.