Desert FM 95.3

por Desert FM 95.3

Dr Leonard Nambala on uterine fibroids

We turn our attention to an important health issue that affects up to 80% of women by the age of 50 yet remains misunderstood and under-discussed - uterine fibroids - slow-growing, non-cancerous tumors that develop in or around the womb, often leading to heavy bleeding, pain, and even fertility issues. Speaking to Desert FM, Dr Leonard Nambala, a general practitioner and gynecologist, who recently contributed a powerful piece titled "Fibroids: The Womb’s Slow-Growing Shadow" in The Namibian newspaper. He helps us understand the causes, risks, symptoms, and treatment options and to highlight why early diagnosis matters.

Ayesha Wentworth on the rollout of the HPV vaccine at Namibian schools

The Ministry of Health and Social Services has announced the rollout of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine as part of its broader cervical cancer prevention strategy. The vaccine targeting young girls to prevent HPV-related cancers later in life is being rolled out through school-based programmes in all 14 regions of the country. But, have parents and guardians been adequately informed? What communication has gone out to schools and communities? When exactly did this rollout begin, and how is it being coordinated across Namibia? Joining us for clarity is Ayesha Wentworth the director for programs and quality assurance in the Ministry of Education, who will help us unpack the details of this critical campaign.

Percy Tjahere on NSFAF's N$118 million Graduate Debt Settlement Programme

We dive into some hopeful news for thousands of Namibian graduates. The Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) has announced a once-off N$118 million Graduate Debt Settlement Programme, aimed at helping over 7 000 students finally receive their long-awaited qualifications. These are individuals who completed their studies in April 2024 or earlier but were unable to graduate due to unpaid tuition fees. Now, thanks to this special intervention made possible through the national treasury, there’s relief in sight though with a few important conditions. Joining us to unpack how the initiative works, who qualifies, and what students need to do next is Percy Tjahere, Executive: Stakeholder Relations at NSFAF.

Makebi Zulu on emotional and legal uncertainty surrounding the burial of former Zambian president Edgar Lungu

We turn our attention to a story that has gripped not only Zambia but the entire SADC region - the emotional and legal uncertainty surrounding the burial of former Zambian president Edgar Lungu. The Pretoria High Court recently halted the burial proceedings, leaving the Lungu family in an emotionally agonising state of limbo. At the centre of this unfolding situation is a family trying to grieve under the glare of political tension and public scrutiny. Joining us now for this deeply personal conversation is Makebi Zulu lawyer, former Member of Parliament, and family spokesperson who sheds light on how the Lungu family is navigating this incredibly painful and complex chapter.

Willy Mertens explains tarrifs slap on diamonds

The United States has imposed a 15% import tariff on diamonds processed in countries such as Namibia and India, a move that Debmarine Namibia says threatens the competitiveness of Namibian diamonds in the world’s largest jewellery market. The company is now urgently lobbying, alongside its shareholders and the Namibian government, for a blanket exemption on both rough and polished diamonds. Joining Desert FM is Willy Merterns, the CEO of Debmarine, to help us understand the risks involved.

Amorè du Toit breaks down realities on breastfeeding in Namibia

It's the final day of World Breastfeeding Week, and we’re taking a closer look at breastfeeding realities in Namibia through the lens of a new national survey conducted by the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia (NAFSAN). Joining Desert FM to digest these findings and share professional insights is Amoré du Toit, a volunteer nutritionist with NAFSAN.

NPPF CEO, Dr Jürgen Hoffmann, on looming PSEMAS crisis

We touch on a story that affects more than 300,000 Namibians - civil servants and their families who rely on the Public Service Medical Aid Scheme, or PSEMAS, for their healthcare needs. A looming crisis is unfolding, as private doctors continue to withdraw from PSEMAS, citing outdated tariffs, rising operational costs, and what some are calling ‘regulatory paralysis’. According to the Namibia Private Practitioners Forum (NPPF), the scheme is heading toward collapse unless urgent reforms are introduced. CEO of the NPPF, Dr. Jürgen Hoffmann, speaks to Desert FM about the challenges faced by healthcare professionals.

Okahandja Mayor Welcomes Red Force Exit, Urges Softer Debt Collection Approach

The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Nkwasa, had directed municipalities not to renew contracts with debt collectors like Red Force. We spoke to Okahandja Mayor Beatrice Katugondo, who reacted to the directive.

Peter Kazongomuinjahe on NUDO’s road to reconciliation

The National Unity Democratic Organisation (NUDO) has officially reconciled its previously divided factions. After a year of tension, internal strife, and party members parting ways, the leadership now says they are united, refocused, and ready for the 2025 Regional and Local Authority Elections. One of the most symbolic returns is that of Barry Rukoro, who had previously formed an alliance with Swanu. With a court settlement keeping the current leadership in place until a new Congress can be held, the big question is: how deep does this unity go, and what does it mean for NUDO’s political future? Joining us now is Peter Kazongomuinjahe, NUDO’s Vice President, to help unpack the road to reconciliation and what lies ahead.

Mike Kavekotora: Will Government's plan to own 51% of mines work?

We turn our attention to a bold move by government that’s stirred national debate: The push for 51% state ownership in all new mining ventures. At the heart of the discussion is economic justice but critics warn that the move could unsettle investor confidence if not handled with transparency and balance. As Namibia works to rewrite its minerals bill and define what fair participation really means, we’re joined by Mike Kavekotora, president of the Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP) and long-standing advocate for accountability and economic transformation.

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