Desert FM 95.3

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Mariental writes off N$1.2 million in debts for elderly residents

The Mariental Municipality has brought welcome relief to some of the town’s most vulnerable residents by writing off more than N$1.2 million in outstanding municipal debts owed by senior citizens. The decision which affects 249 elderly residents is part of a broader effort to ease financial pressures while the municipality prepares to introduce prepaid water meters in the coming weeks. Beyond debt relief, the move also aims to encourage sustainable water management and accountability in the use of municipal services. Desert FM spoke to Mariental Mayor Kock about the decision and its impact on the community

Gaps in national data governance

The world is quickly moving towards a digital future with Namibia playing its part. The government has started conversations around a national data governance policy yet concerns remain on where sensitive information is being stored. Archivist and founder of the inaugural workshop on the legal and regulatory framework for electronic records, Robert Ngololo, argues that records are not just history, they are the backbone of sovereignty and security.

Botswana–Namibia Bi-national Commission

Namibia this week plays host to the second session of the Botswana–Namibia Bi-National Commission. To unpack the importance of this gathering and what we can expect, Desert FM speaks to executive director in the Ministry of International Relations and Trade Ndiitah Nghipondoka-Robiati.

National Literary Festival concluded

Namibia concluded the second edition of its National Literary Festival, held this weekend at the National Library in Windhoek. Held under the theme 'Open a Book', the festival celebrated Namibian literature through panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, storytelling, spoken word and children’s theatre. To reflect on how it all went, Desert FM speaks to the coordinator of the festival, Helena Ngaifiwa.

Namibia’s National Literary Festival Returns, Celebrating Books and Local Authors

The second National Literary Festival in Windhoek, held under the theme “Open a Book”, brings together writers, readers, and publishers to inspire a stronger reading culture and showcase Namibian talent. We spoke to author Selima Henok about her journey and the festival’s impact.

Closure of 221 Literacy Centres Raises Fears of Adult Education Setback

The Ministry of Education has shut down 221 literacy centres to cut costs, saving N$6.8 million, but sparking criticism from rural regions. Adult education practitioner Dylan Mukoroli warns the closures will deprive thousands of adults, especially in marginalized communities, of vital opportunities to learn basic literacy skills, understand everyday communication, and improve livelihoods. He says government should have strengthened support and accessibility rather than scrapping the programme.

Zambezi Residents Struggle as Broken Boreholes Leave Taps Dry

Despite being surrounded by rivers, communities in the Zambezi region face severe water shortages due to broken boreholes, stolen equipment, and high electricity costs. Community activist Dobson Kwala says villagers are forced to walk long distances or rely on unsafe wells, and urges government to provide free water to rural households while stepping up maintenance and education campaigns.

20,000 Namibian Children at Risk of Online Sexual Exploitation Each Year

Social worker Ashley Joseph from Lifeline Childline says children aged 12–17 are most vulnerable to online predators, with weak parental supervision and poverty increasing the risks. Namibia’s Child Care and Protection Act offers some safeguards, but gaps remain until the cybercrime bill is enacted.

Namibian Rotary Club Cycle Classic 2025 kicks off

The annual Namibian Rotary Club Cycle Classic 2025 kicks off tomorrow and runs until Sunday, bringing together cycling enthusiasts, families, and the broader community for one of Namibia’s premier cycling and charity events. To give us more insight, Desert FM speaks to Elrich Tilling, circulation manager and events coordinator at The Namibian.

Commercial banks to make credit more affordable

The Bank of Namibia has welcomed the decision by commercial banks to reduce the spread between the repo rate and prime lending rates by 25 basis points. To help us unpack what this means for ordinary Namibians and the broader economy, Desert FM chats to economist Omu-Kakujaha Matundu.

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