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Let's say no to stow

The first crossing of Africa by motor vehicle was completed in 1909 by the Imperial German Army Lieutenant Paul Graetz (1875-1968). At the time he was on an extended furlough as a military engineer stationed in German East Africa (today’s Tanzania).

He and his team arrived at Swakopmund on May 1, 1909, having left Dar es Salaam on August 10, 1907. While the journey of over 9,500 kilometres had taken nearly twice as long as had been originally anticipated, it was heralded as a major achievement.

The motor vehicle used for the expedition was custom designed according to Graetz’s instructions by then Süddeutsche Automobilfabrik Gaggenau GmbH, a company that became Benz-Werke Gaggenau (now Daimler AG - i.e., Mercedes Benz).

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Editor's Comment
DIS must correct costly stalemate

More than P8.1 million has already been spent, yet there appears to be no lasting solution in sight. This is not simply a dispute between the DIS and a group of officers. It is a matter of public accountability. Every pula spent by government comes from taxpayers who expect public funds to be used wisely and responsibly, especially during economic hardships faced by many.The officers exercised their constitutional right to seek justice through...

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