Desert FM 95.3

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Leefa Martin: Butcher of Lubango's state funeral questioned

Cabinet recently imposed a moratorium on state and official funerals from 16 June 2025 to 31 March 2026, citing a need to review the country’s criteria and processes for granting national honors. Nevertheless, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has granted a state funeral and hero status to former NDF chief Solomon “Jesus” Hawala, despite opposition from survivors of the Lubango dungeons, who labeled him the “Butcher of Lubango” for alleged torture and exile-era abuses. The decision has raised critical ethical from survivors, including Leefa Martin. She speaks to Desert FM on her thoughts.

Sonnel Nujoma on World Suicide Prevention Month

September is World Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigma and promoting support for those struggling with mental health challenges. Namibia has not been immune to rising cases of depression, anxiety, and suicide, which continue to affect families, schools, and workplaces. To help us get into the causes, the warning signs, and the role of communities in prevention, we’re joined by psychological counsellor Sonnel Nujoma.

Cynthia Beukes on Suicide Prevention Month

September is globally recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and strengthen prevention efforts. Namibia continues to face rising mental health challenges, with many families, workplaces, and schools grappling with the effects of depression, anxiety, and suicide. To help us understand the root causes, warning signs, and the role of communities in prevention, Desert FM is joined by clinical psychologist Cynthia Beukes who shares more on the matter.

Raphael Hamunyela reflecting on the Mariental tragedy

The recent tragic accident involving overloaded vehicles operated by the Namibian Correctional Service has ignited public outrage and renewed concerns over safety in state transportation. Following the devastating incident, which resulted in the loss of lives, NCS Head Commissioner General Raphael Hamunyela publicly took responsibility. He expressed deep remorse and asked for forgiveness from the nation and the families affected. In an interview with our journalist, Ellen Albertz, Hamunyela reflected on the tragedy, admitted key shortcomings within the service, and outlined the steps being taken to ensure a safer future for the Correctional Service.

33 Learners Hospitalized in Kavango East After Suspected Food Poisoning

Christine Shilima, the Regional Director of Education in Kavango East, spoke to us about the incident in which at least 33 learners from Maria Mwengere Secondary School were rushed to Rundu Intermediate Hospital after a suspected case of food poisoning.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah visited the Uvhungu Vhungu, Shadikongoro, and Ndonga-Linena green schemes

Over the past week, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah visited the Uvhungu Vhungu, Shadikongoro, and Ndonga-Linena green schemes on a follow-up visit to turn the agro-projects into engines of food security and job creation in the country. During the visits, she engaged with farmers and inspected progress. To explain the significance of these visits and what they mean for agriculture, presidential spokesperson Jonas Mbambo shares more with Desert FM.

Elderly patients to travel almost 250 kilometres to Onandjokwe State Hospital for treatment.

Pensioners at Tsumeb say they feel neglected by the health system with the local state hospital not providing specialised eye care, forcing elderly patients to travel almost 250 kilometres to Onandjokwe State Hospital for treatment. While the government covers transport costs, many pensioners say the long journeys make it nearly impossible to access much-needed care. The Ministry of Health and Social Services acknowledges the shortage of eye specialists and says steps are being taken to fill vacant posts. To respond to these concerns, Desert FM chats to health ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya.

Calls for fairer access to Youth Development Fund

The government’s N$257 million non-collateral Youth Development Fund has been hailed as a game-changer for tackling youth unemployment. Many young people say the process of applying for the government’s non-collateral national Youth Development Fund is complicated; in fact, every group it is meant to empower, especially those in informal settlements, risks being left behind. Social justice activist Shaun Gariseb has been engaging with young people at Katutura, calling for fairer timelines and real support to ensure no young people are excluded. He joins Desert FM to share more of his views.

Lister looks back on a 40-year journey

THE NAMIBIAN recently celebrated 40years of existence.During tributes and recollections, manyhave noted how the paper has become apillar of independent journalism in thecountry.Its founder, Gwen Lister, recalls the earlychallenges of publishing under apartheid,the crucial role of civil society, and themission to give Namibians a voice.From arrests to shaping the nation’smedia landscape, Lister reflects on thehighs and lows by joining Desert FM totake a trip down memory lane.

Youth Fund Faces Uptake Struggles: Vessel Calls for Simpler Access and Mentorship

Just weeks after the National Youth Fund rollout, reports note little to no uptake among youth, prompting concerns about accessibility, design, and outreach. Applications remain open, even extended in some regions to ensure greater access. To discuss the Fund’s readiness, outreach failures, and what young people need to actually benefit, we spoke with youth leader Kevin Wessels.

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