Desert FM 95.3

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Dozens of pupils still without school placements weeks into academic year

Weeks after the 2026 academic year began, dozens of children remain without school placements, with parents urging the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture to establish temporary classrooms or tents to accommodate affected pupils. Speaking to Desert FM, ministry deputy executive director for schools and formal education Edda Bohn responds to the concerns as parents say their children continue to miss out on learning despite applying during the registration period.

Black economic empowerment policies questioned amid public debate

An editorial published in The Namibian, titled “Self-Enrichment Is Not Empowering,” has sparked renewed discussion around Black Economic Empowerment, public resources, and whether current policies are truly benefiting ordinary Namibians or just a connected few.The article questions the direction of empowerment initiatives, raising concerns about enrichment at the top, transparency, and the broader impact on economic inclusion.To unpack these issues, we are joined by veteran politician, former Prime Minister, and respected elder statesman Nahas Angula, who shares his perspective on empowerment, governance, and Namibia’s path forward.

President seeks legal opinion on Paragon oil licence renewal

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has requested the Attorney General to provide a legal opinion on the renewal of Paragon Oil & Gas petroleum exploration licence, known as PEL 37, amid concerns that the extension may have breached provisions of the Petroleum Act.The matter has been linked to the dismissal of former mines and energy minister Natangwe Ithete and could have broader implications for regulatory oversight in Namibia’s emerging oil and gas sector.To unpack the legal, regulatory, and governance implications of the decision, we are joined by legal expert Professor Johan Coetzee for analysis on what the review could mean and what may follow.

Sankwasa faces double standards claims over N$174 000 water bills

Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa is facing accusations of double standards after it emerged that he allegedly owes Namibia Water Corporation N$174 000. At the same time, he publicly urges councillors to settle their outstanding municipal debts. Lifalaza Simaata from the Landless People's Movement and Frans Kandjilu from the Independent Patriots for Change, share their views with Desert FM.

Sankwasa urges councillors to pay debts as questions emerge over his own water bill

Urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa has called on councillors to settle outstanding municipal debts, warning that unpaid accounts erode public trust. However, questions have surfaced over his own alleged water bill arrears. In an interview with Desert FM, the minister responded to the concerns.

Youth Leader Armando Pieters Says National Youth Council Is Failing Namibia’s Youth

Youth leader Armando Pieters speaks to Desert FM on the relevance and functionality of the National Youth Council, accusing the institution of being disconnected from the realities of young people. Pieters argues that political interference, weak governance, and lack of accountability have turned the NYC into what he calls a “youth milking cow,” and calls for the Act governing the council to be suspended and reviewed.

‘Taxpayers Deserve Answers’: Josef Kauandenge on DBN Debt Write-Off.

Opposition political leader Josef Kauandenge has strongly criticised the Development Bank of Namibia’s decision to write off N$579 million in non-performing loans, raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and financial governance. Kauandenge argues that the funds were meant to support development projects and job creation, particularly for young people, and says the lack of public explanation on who benefited from the loans and how the decision was reached is eroding public trust. He further calls on the government and DBN management to disclose the beneficiaries, strengthen internal controls, and ensure that those responsible for loan defaults are held accountable in their individual capacities.

JP van de Westruizen Weighs in on Role of Executive Chair and Governance at NYC

Former National Youth Council board member JP van de Westruizen speaks to Desert FM on the mandate, impact, and governance challenges facing the NYC. He reflects on the role of affiliate youth organisations, the relevance of the executive chairperson position, and the need to address communication and governance gaps within the council.

N$40m programme improves borehole water quality in rural Namibia

Access to clean water remains a challenge in many rural communities in Namibia. However, a N$40 million programme, stretching over four years, has rolled out borehole water softening and treatment technology across several regions. Speaking to Desert FM, Environmental Investment Fund spokesperson Romeo Muyunda outlines the impact of the initiative, areas covered, and what lies ahead.

No advanced level space for Kavango east pupils

Concerns are growing in the Kavango east region after education authorities confirmed there was no space for advanced subsidiary level pupils who passed their Grade 11 exams last year. Speaking to Desert FM, Kavango east education director Christine Shilima explains placement challenges, infrastructure constraints, and possible solutions.

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