Desert FM 95.3

di Desert FM 95.3

Jessica Babich on how the Rhisotope Project aims to protect African rhinos

Poaching continues to threaten some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife - but a groundbreaking conservation initiative may be changing the game entirely. The Rhisotope Project, developed by Wits University in South Africa in collaboration with global experts and the International Atomic Energy Agency, has just moved from research to full-scale implementation. The project uses trace amounts of radioactive isotopes to make rhino horns detectable and therefore worthless on the black market, with the potential to deter poachers and protect these endangered giants once and for all. Joining us is Jessica Babich, CEO of the Rhisotope Project, to unpack how it works, why it’s safe for the animals, and how this innovation could change wildlife conservation forever.

Mark Mushiba on Inherited Testimonies: Re-tracing the Genocide with Nama and Ovaherero Descendants exhibition

We turn our attention to a powerful and deeply significant exhibition Inherited Testimonies: Re-tracing the Genocide with Nama and Ovaherero Descendants. Opening this week at the National Art Gallery of Namibia, the exhibition brings together years of collaboration between affected communities, traditional leaders, genocide activist groups, and the investigative team at Forensis. It uses a remarkable combination of oral histories, advanced digital mapping, and archival reinterpretation to uncover traces of the German colonial genocide traces still embedded in our landscapes, memories, and collective identity. We were joined by Mr. Mark Mushiba from Forensis to talk about how this project came to life, the stories it preserves, and the impact it hopes to make.

DJ Munene: Ohangwena hosts second Namibia national women’s conference

Earlier this month, the Ohangwena Region hosted the second edition of the Namibia National Women’s Conference, organised by the Progressive Men Empowerment Organization of Namibia. Under the theme ‘Creating the Safest Environment for Girls and Women to Live, Learn, and Lead’, the event brought together voices from across the country to discuss safety, leadership, empowerment, and how men can be part of the solution in building a safer Namibia for women and girls. We were joined by DJ Munene, founder and president of the Progressive Men Empowerment Organization, to share how the conference went, what the key takeaways were, and how these discussions will shape the next men’s conference.

Trisha Mutumbulua dives into CANA Zone IV challenge for Namibia

We shine the spotlight on an inspiring young Namibian athlete making waves literally in the swimming pool. Trisha Mutumbulua is proudly representing Namibia at the CANA Zone IV Swimming Championships in Eswatini. But while she’s ready to race against some of the region’s best swimmers, she’s also facing the challenge of raising funds to cover her accommodation costs for the competition. Today, we hear her journey, her dreams, and how we can all help her make a splash for Namibia.

Solomon ‘Jesus’ Hawala’s Death Sparks Debate

The death of retired Lieutenant General Solomon ‘Jesus’ Hawala, at the age of 89, has reignited debate about his role in Namibia’s liberation struggle. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has hailed him as an iconic freedom fighter, while survivors of the Lubango dungeons accuse him of leading atrocities against fellow Namibians in exile. Political analyst Ben Mulongeni speaks to journalist Ellen Albertz about Hawala’s controversial legacy and whether he should be accorded a state funeral.

Seven in Ten Namibian Children Fail Basic Literacy and Numeracy

Seven out of ten Namibian children cannot read or do basic mathematics by the age of ten. According to Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp, a national Grade 3 assessment revealed that only 28% passed the literacy benchmark in 2024, with just 5% meeting the numeracy standard. Journalist Ester Mbathera speaks to the minister about the findings, the causes, and the measures being taken to address the crisis.

Mahongora Kavihuha on Namibia’s Education Crisis

While the Ministry of Education has committed millions to teacher development and in-service training, critics argue that the problem runs much deeper, rooted in language policy, overcrowded classrooms, and decades of structural neglect. To help us understand the crisis, and bring the perspective of educators on the ground, Desert FM is joined by Mahongora Kavihuha, Secretary General of the Teachers’ Union of Namibia, who shares more on the matter.

Shifting gender gears one car at a time

Reports from Namibia’s automotive industry suggest it remains heavily male dominated, leaving little room for women to enter let alone stay in the sector. This was true for Herodia Shidwedha, who joined the industry in 2019 but quit the same year due to logistical challenges and limited knowledge of the field. However, after taking time to research and better understand the market, Shidwedha returned last year with renewed confidence. She now runs her own car sales business and recently spoke to Junne Akawa about her journey.

St. Barnabas Primary School Advances Soccer Field Project.

Many schools in previously disadvantaged communities lack proper sports facilities. We spoke to Principal Hinua Mbangura about the vision and progress of the new soccer field project at St. Barnabas Primary School in Katutura.

African Stars vs Eeshoke Chula Chula: Fundraising Clash for Brave Warriors Set for August 31

The Brave Warriors World Cup Campaign Committee has confirmed a fundraising match at Independence Stadium to raise N$7.5 million for the 2026 qualifiers. Tickets cost N$50 for general entry and N$500 for VIP, with transport support from the City of Windhoek. We spoke to Chairperson Tim Ekandjo on the sports chat show for more details and how corporate sponsors can get involved.

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