Desert FM 95.3

por Desert FM 95.3

Namibia to boost foot-and-mouth disease prevention

Namibia’s N$15-billion livestock sector faces growing threats from foot-and-mouth disease, prompting the government to seek an additional N$1.5 billion to strengthen prevention and safeguard exports and livelihoods. Speaking to Desert FM, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform spokesperson Simon Nghipandulwa explained what these measures mean for farmers, consumers, and the broader economy.

HIV treatment room labelling at clinics sparks debate

Former health minister Kalumbi Shangula says the labelling of HIV treatment rooms at clinics was never official ministry policy and may have been added by contractors. This comes as the current health minister, Esperance Luvindao, warns that such labels can fuel stigma and discourage patients from seeking care. Speaking to Desert FM, Walvis Bay based HIV-AIDS activist Bernard Kamatoto discussed concerns that removing labels without careful planning could disrupt services and create confusion at already stretched facilities.

Wanja Njuguna discusses radio and AI for World Radio Day 2026

The world marks World Radio Day on 13 February this year. The day was proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation to celebrate radio as one of the most trusted and accessible media platforms. This year’s theme is 'Radio and Artificial Intelligence (AI)', sparking the important debate on whether AI is an opportunity or a threat in modern newsrooms. Speaking to Desert FM, journalist, researcher and communication lecturer Wanja Njuguna unpacked what the rise of AI could mean for the future of radio.

FNB launches weSave digital group savings account

FNB Namibia has introduced a new digital group savings account called weSave, designed to formalise traditional stokvel-style saving into a regulated, interest-bearing banking product that promotes financial inclusion and builds on Africa’s community savings culture. Speaking to Desert FM, economist Omu-Kakujaha Matundu unpacked where citizens stand to benefit and how the bank may also gain from the product.

Oil discoveries spark debate over regulation and local benefits

Namibia’s offshore oil and gas sector has attracted strong international interest following major discoveries in the Orange and Lüderitz basins, but concerns are growing over regulatory gaps, the role of local stakeholders and the legality of deals announced before government approval. Speaking to Desert FM, investigative journalist John Grobler unpacked what is at stake for Namibia as it positions itself as a future oil-producing nation.

Questions arise over sale of major petroleum licence to oil giants

International oil companies TotalEnergies and Petrobras have announced acquiring a major stake in petroleum exploration licence PEL104, partly owned by firms linked to Namibian businessman Knowledge Katti, despite the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy saying no written approval was granted as required by law. Speaking to Desert FM, minister of mines and energy Modestus Amutse addressed growing concerns over a small group of Namibians acquiring oil licences to resell them to multinationals, which ultimately benefits from the country’s oil wealth.

NLM rejects Masisi apology over Nchindo brothers' killing

The Namibian Lives Matter movement has rejected former Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi’s apology for the 2020 killing of the Nchindo brothers by the Botswana Defence Force, describing his remarks as dishonest and insensitive. Speaking to Desert FM, NLM chairperson Sinvula Mudabeti said the apology fails to acknowledge what the movement calls a 'shoot-to-kill' policy that has claimed dozens of Namibian lives.

Fuel quality concerns raise alarm for Namibian motorists

Concerns are mounting after industry experts warned that some fuel imported into Namibia may contain high levels of metals, potentially damaging modern vehicles and leading to costly repairs. Speaking to Desert FM, reporter Nishi Felton discussed investigating the matter, raising questions about fuel quality controls, accountability and whether current regulations adequately protect consumers.

Cohabitation and marriage myths in legal spotlight in Namibia

Many Namibians grow up believing living together for several years automatically makes a couple legally married, but legal experts say this is not necessarily true under Namibian law. Speaking to Desert FM, Natjirikasorua Tjirera clarified what the Constitution says about marriage, family life and the legal rights of cohabiting partners.

Kavango East schools struggle with severe overcrowding

Overcrowding in schools across Namibia’s Kavango East region is raising concerns, with some pupils forced to sit on floors, share desks, and learn in challenging conditions. Speaking to Desert FM, Kavango East education director Christine Shilima outlined what is being done to address the situation and how the authorities plan to improve learning conditions.

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