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(NEW ERA) Business icon Punyu passes away

Business icon Punyu passes away
03 Nov 2009
OSHAKATI - One of the first and most well-established businessmen in northern Namibia, Jarius Shikale, popularly known as ‘Punyu’, died of kidney failure last Thursday aged 59. Shikale died in the evening at Onandjokwe Lutheran Hospital.

He had been battling diabetes for a long time and had one of his legs amputated. He was hospitalised at Onandjokwe Lutheran Hospital’s private ward for quite a while, from where he was later discharged.

A few days after he was discharged, Shikale went into a coma and eventually succumbed to illness.

Shikale was the owner of the Punyu Group, an umbrella group of companies that conducts several businesses including supermarkets and service stations. He was the owner of a classy hotel and casino Punyu Hotel, housing properties including Punyu village, consisting of over 50 houses in Ondangwa and a stone crusher in Tsumeb.

Shikale also owned supermarkets and service stations at Ondangwa, Okahao, Oshivelo, Tsumeb, Onuno, Oniipa, Ohangwena, Onethindi and other parts of the northern regions.

In a press statement released by the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI), the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer Tarah Shaanika expressed shock and disbelief over the death of Shikale.
Shaanika described Shikale as a selfless, hardworking, skilful businessman who had been always willing to support others especially upcoming entrepreneurs.

“Shikale was not only a prominent business personality in Namibia, but also an active member of his community. He contributed immensely to the wellbeing of his people through generous financial, material, and other forms of support,” said Shaanika.

Shikale is survived by his wife Abia Shikale, and four children – two daughters and two sons. Funeral arrangements are underway.

Labels: BUSINESS

posted by MrK @ 5:42 AM