Desert FM 95.3

di Desert FM 95.3

Mulunga calls for urgent zoning as FMD outbreak threatens beef industry

Namibia’s latest foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak could have a major impact on the country’s beef and informal economies, says IPC shadow minister for agriculture Michael Mulunga. Mulunga says restrictions on the movement and slaughter of livestock will affect farmers, traders and consumers, while calling for Namibia’s FMD-free area to be divided into smaller zones to contain future outbreaks.

Oshakati council orders 112 unauthorised structures removed

The Oshakati Town Council has ordered residents occupying 112 unauthorised structures at Onawa Extension 7 to vacate the land by 28 September. Council spokesperson Martin Kapuka says illegal occupation will not be legalised, while residents have raised concerns about poverty, unemployment and access to affordable housing.

Family seeks answers over Swakopmund man’s death

A family is seeking answers following the death of Nafatal Shinedima, known as Zuma, whose vehicle was found near the beach at Swakopmund in May. Search-and-rescue volunteer Sean Naude says questions remain about the circumstances of the death, while the investigation is reportedly ongoing.

Minister says B1 speed humps have eliminated pedestrian crashes

Works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi says pedestrian crashes have dropped to zero along the B1 stretch where speed humps were installed. The ministry is also preparing to construct two pedestrian crossover bridges, with work expected to start before the end of the year.

Shitana calls for paternity benefits under social security

Affirmative Repositioning parliamentarian Fredrick Shitana is calling for men to receive paternity benefits under the Social Security Commission. Shitana says while the recent increase in maternity and other social security benefits is welcome, men who contribute to the fund should also receive support, including at least one or two weeks of paternity leave.

SSC says benefit increases will remain sustainable

The Social Security Commission says it has the financial capacity to sustain increased benefits for maternity, sick leave, death, disability and retirement from 1 October. Acting chief executive Ben Nangombe says the increases were guided by actuarial assessments of the fund, while adjustments to contribution ceilings will help support the higher payouts.

Fuel supply deal could bring savings for motorists

A new TotalEnergies fuel supply deal could bring savings for Namibian motorists from November. The government expects to save about N$220.5 million, but pump prices will still depend on international fuel prices, exchange rates and shipping costs.

Police warn against transporting undocumented Angolan children

Oshana regional police commander Andreas Shilelo has warned long-distance bus operators against transporting undocumented Angolan children to towns outside the northern regions. He says the police are engaging transport operators to stop the practice amid concerns over possible human trafficking.

Internships should not become permanent jobs – Kutondokwa

Youth leader Josephine Kutondokwa says internships should provide young people with practical experience, mentorship and professional exposure, rather than being used as a source of cheap labour. She says clearer standards are needed around internship duration, learning objectives, supervision, working hours, allowances and responsibilities, especially when interns are doing the work of permanent employees.

Residents demand accountability from City of Windhoek

Residents are demanding greater accountability and improved service delivery from the City of Windhoek. Activists say they want city leaders to engage directly with residents at the planned 26 September gathering...

5 di 141