Desert FM 95.3

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John Walenga Reflects on The Namibian’s 40-Year Legacy

The Namibian marks 40 years of fearless journalism, we spoke to veteran journalist John Walenga, who shared his journey from the paper’s early struggle-era newsroom to its enduring role as a trusted voice in Namibia’s democracy.

BIPA Begins Deregistering Non-Compliant Businesses Over Beneficial Ownership Rules

The Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) has started deregistering companies that failed to meet beneficial ownership disclosure requirements. With over 141,000 organisations at risk, businesses are urged to comply urgently or face losing contracts, bank access, and even their legal status. We spoke to BIPA spokesperson Romancia Shoonga on this development

Hofney Kanandjembo reflects on The Namibian’s 40-year journey

This year marks a remarkable milestone in the history of Namibian media — The Namibian newspaper turns 40. For four decades, it has been at the forefront of shaping our nation’s democratic discourse, from its early days as a fierce voice against apartheid to navigating today’s ever-evolving media landscape. Joining us this hour is someone who has witnessed this growth and transformation firsthand Hofney Kanandjembo, who served as Head of Circulation and Operations back in 2014 at The Namibian. He takes us through his journey at the paper, the challenges, the breakthroughs, and just how much the institution has grown over the years.

Gelda Waterboer’s viral song sparks national conversation

Our next conversation takes us into the classroom — where one teacher’s creative approach to educating children has sparked national conversation and gone viral on social media. By teaching pupils a song aimed at raising awareness and protecting them from perpetrators, this educator has received praise, curiosity, and even some criticism about where to draw the line between safeguarding children and unintentionally sexualising the discussion. We’re joined now to talk about the inspiration behind this song, Gelda Waterboer the reaction from pupils and the community, and what it means when teaching goes viral.

Akser Aupindi on lessons from Katima Mulilo council dissolution

Our next conversation takes us to the north-east of the country, where the Katima Mulilo Town Council has been dissolved by the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa. In a government gazette issued last week, the minister invoked Section 92(2) of the Local Authorities Act, effectively removing all council members from office citing their failure to implement his directives on governance, land issues, and financial management. This unprecedented move has raised questions about accountability, governance, and the future of local authorities across the country. To help us unpack the significance of this decision and what it could mean for other towns and municipalities, we’re joined by the Deputy Mayor of Okahandja, Akser Aupindi.

Gerson Kasinee a vision for service delivery in Omatako

As we edge closer to Namibia’s local and regional elections, political parties are finalising their primaries and putting forward their candidates. At the heart of these elections will be service delivery from housing and infrastructure to education, jobs, and safety. This hour, we spotlight the Omatako Constituency, a community with unique challenges and opportunities. We’re joined by one of the candidates Mr Gerson Kasinee standing in that constituency to hear their vision and what they plan to deliver should voters put their trust in them.

Joseph Andreas on His Appointment to the National Planning Commission

Controversial businessman Joseph Andreas says his recent appointment as a commissioner on the National Planning Commission has nothing to do with his political affiliations. Earlier this year, Andreas admitted to playing an influential role in Nandi-Ndaitwah’s successful presidential campaign. He argues, however, that his business success in creating employment qualifies him for his recent appointment to the presidency. Andrew Kathindi speaks to Andreas about this.

LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia: 45 Years of Service and Struggle

This year, LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia marks 45 years of service. Since its founding in 1980, the organisation has been at the forefront of mental health support in the country. Yet challenges remain from stigma to limited resources as mental health becomes an increasingly urgent national concern. To reflect on this milestone, the challenges, and the road ahead, Desert FM speaks to LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia’s Radio Coordinator, Elizabeth Hamurenge.

The Origins of The Namibian

The name The Namibian was conceived during a restaurant meeting more than 40 years ago. The title was well suited to its mission: to tell the stories of Namibia and Namibians as independently as possible. Justice Dave Smuts, who played a key role in the newspaper’s establishment, sat down with Desert FM to reflect on its beginnings.

Windhoek Council Accused of Failure Amid Political Infighting

The capital’s leadership is under fire. Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa has accused City of Windhoek councilors of failing residents, saying that if they had only a year left in office, he would have dismissed them for poor performance, just as he did with the Katima Mulilo Town Council. He described the city as “rudderless”, plagued by political infighting and a lack of direction. Councillor Ivan Skrywer joins Desert FM to respond to these claims and reflect on the state of governance at the City of Windhoek.

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