Desert FM 95.3

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Malaria cases surge as health ministry faces scrutiny

The ministry of health and social services is under criticism after confirmed malaria cases reportedly rose by 68% in the first four weeks of the year, with thousands of infections, hundreds of hospital admissions and at least one death recorded. Concerns over prevention measures and continued rainfall in high-risk areas are growing. Speaking to Desert FM, ministry spokesperson Walter Kamaya addresses the spike and outlines government efforts to strengthen malaria control and prevention.

Pupils risk river crossing to get to school

In the Kavango East region, pupils cross the Kavango River by canoe each morning to get to school, facing dangers such as crocodiles, hippos and the constant risk of drowning. This highlights serious safety and infrastructure challenges in rural communities. Speaking to Desert FM, Kake Primary School principal Lyndex Shangara expresses concern about the daily risk this journey poses to pupils and their families.

Slower money movement signals cooling economic activity in Namibia

New Bank of Namibia data shows that although there is more money in circulation than a decade ago, it is moving more slowly through the economy, with the velocity of money dropping from 1.8 in 2015 to 1.6 in 2025. This points to weaker spending and investment despite rising cash levels and foreign reserves. Speaking to Desert FM, analysts say this trend could have implications for economic growth, employment and the cost of living, raising concerns for ordinary Namibians.

Kavango East pupils risk river crossing to attend school

More than 150 pupils in the Kavango East region cross the Kavango River by canoe each morning to get to school, facing dangers such as crocodiles, hippos and the risk of drowning. Speaking to Desert FM, Shadipwera Primary School principal Marceline Muriri says the daily journey places immense strain on pupils, parents and teachers alike.

Political analyst Sakaria Johannes weighs in on Parliament’s push for inclusive developmen

Political analyst Sakaria Johannes analyses Parliament’s theme of inclusive development and participatory democracy, highlighting the importance of meaningful public participation, effective scrutiny of bills, and the need for legislation that delivers real benefits to Namibians. He also reflects on the slower pace of law-making in the current Parliament and why thorough scrutiny remains critical, particularly on sensitive legislation such as the petroleum bill.

SUN board chair calls for meaningful youth inclusion in Parliament’s development agenda

Student Union of Namibia board chair Bernard Kavau weighs in on Parliament’s call for inclusive development and participatory democracy, urging the government to move beyond rhetoric and actively involve young people in policy-making. Kavau stresses transparency, education reform, and youth preparedness to ensure Namibians meaningfully benefit from key legislation, including oil, petroleum, and land-related bills.

Parliament opening sets focus on discipline and accountability

The official opening of parliament marks a key moment on the national calendar, setting the tone and priorities for the year ahead following a challenging and often contentious legislative period. Speaking to Desert FM, Affirmative Repositioning chief whip Vaino Hangula shares expectations for the new session, including the need for improved discipline, accountability and productivity in the House.

Justice delays at Opuwo raise fair trial concerns

Delays in court proceedings at Opuwo, in the Kunene region, due to a shortage of magistrates, limited interpreter services and the absence of a permanent regional court have raised concerns about access to justice and the right to a fair and timely trial. Speaking to Desert FM, lawyer Natjirikasorua Tjirera Opuwo addresses the impact of these challenges on both accused persons and victims.

Parliament reopens under spotlight as opposition sets expectations

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has officially opened the third session of Namibia’s eighth parliament under the theme ‘Enhancing the Role of Parliament for Inclusive Development and Participatory Democracy’. This comes after a previous session in which no substantive bills were passed, raising concerns about productivity and accountability. Speaking to Desert FM, official opposition representative in parliament for the Independent Patriots for Change, Imms Nashinge, outlines expectations for the new legislative year and what lawmakers must do differently going forward.

State House incident fuels debate on transparency and press freedom

Journalist Jemima Beukes was escorted from State House after questioning president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah about alleged family interests in the oil sector, reigniting debate over transparency, accountability and the treatment of the media. Speaking to Desert FM, Association for Localised Interest president Joseph Kauandenge discusses the broader implications of the incident on democracy and public trust.

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