Desert FM 95.3

por Desert FM 95.3

From Contract Labor to Independence: The Dehumanizing History Behind May Day

Heike Becker explores the deep-rooted history of Namibia’s labor movements, revealing how the dehumanizing "Okaholo" contract system became the primary catalyst for the liberation struggle. While workers were once the backbone of national resistance, we reflect on why their collective influence has faced a decline in the post-independence era.

A Modern Safety Net for Every Namibian Worker

Ben Nangombe (ED, Ministry of Labour) announced that the Labour Act overhaul is nearing completion, with new protections coming for gig and remote workers. He also confirmed a universal $18/hour minimum wage by January 2027 to ensure a living wage and prevent a "race to the bottom" for Namibia’s workforce.

No foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Namibia, ministry assures

Romeo Muyunda, Deputy Director for Communications at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, says Namibia remains free of foot-and-mouth disease despite regional outbreaks. He urges the public to avoid misinformation and support prevention efforts to protect the country’s livestock sector.

Expert says merit-based hiring key to effective service delivery

Herbert Jauch, a Namibian labour expert, says merit-based hiring is essential to ensure effective service delivery in government institutions. He warns that despite strong laws, political interference in recruitment can still undermine performance and public trust.

Itula warns nepotism undermines merit-based recruitment

Panduleni Itula, leader of the official opposition and president of the Independent Patriots for Change, says nepotism and politically influenced hiring are damaging merit-based recruitment in Namibia. He warns that prioritising connections over qualifications is weakening service delivery and slowing national development.

Youth leader criticises extension of retirement age for public servants

Youth activist Benard Kavau has criticised the Public Service Commission’s decision to retain retired officials, saying it limits opportunities for young Namibians. He is calling for greater youth inclusion in leadership and stronger accountability as the country faces rising unemployment concerns.

Top genetics take centre stage at Namibia Genetics Auction in Windhoek

Heinz Gruhn of the Namibia Hereford Breeders Society says the Namibia Genetics Auction is all about investing in top-quality livestock genetics to strengthen herds across the country. He says farmers must continue prioritising breeding improvements despite climate challenges such as drought and variable rainfall.

Unions Warn of Rising Psychosocial Risks on Workers’ Memorial Day

Unionist Mahongora Kavihua says Namibia must urgently address rising psychosocial risks in workplaces, including stress, harassment, and toxic work cultures. He says stronger enforcement of Convention 190 is key to protecting workers and preventing long-term mental and physical harm.

AS Curriculum Under Fire as Pass Rates Drop, Students Call for Urgent Review

Student Union of Namibia Board Chairperson Bernard Kavau told Desert FM that poor implementation, lack of resources, and limited consultation are driving declining performance under the AS curriculum. He says there is a major gap between education policy and what is actually happening in classrooms, calling for urgent and inclusive reforms.

Mulunga warns of deepening fishing crisis, calls for policy overhaul

IPC shadow fisheries minister Michael Mulunga says Namibia’s fishing sector is under severe strain, with declining stocks, job losses and governance concerns at the centre of the crisis. He is calling for urgent policy reforms, including changes to the Marine Resources Act and a fairer quota allocation system.

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