Desert FM 95.3

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Ovaherero community to commemorate Genocide Remembrance Day

This weekend, a faction of the Ovaherero community will gather at the Otjinene area to commemorate the genocide carried out by German colonial forces between 1904 and 1908. To discuss the significance of this commemoration, Desert FM speaks to Ovaherero Traditional Authority paramount chief Hoze Riruako.

Namibian student battling rare blood disorder family appeals for urgent support

At just 24 years old Helena Shimbulu should be focused on her studies and future career in Occupational Therapy. Instead, she is fighting for her life. Helena has been diagnosed with Very Severe Aplastic Anaemia a rare and life threatening condition where the bone marrow stops producing blood cells. Without urgent treatment her future hangs in the balance but there is hope. Her younger brother Lazarus has been confirmed as a perfect bone marrow match giving Helena a chance at survival. A transplant has been scheduled at Mediclinic Constantiaberg Hospital in Cape Town. While medical aid will cover the transplant procedure, the family is urgently appealing for help to raise N$200 000. These funds are needed to cover travel, accommodation and daily living expenses while Helena undergoes treatment in South Africa. If you want to assist,contact Paulina (0812812861).

Namibian motorists get relief as RFA writes off old license debts

Motorists across Namibia are set to benefit from major debt relief. The Road Fund Administration (RFA) has announced the cancellation of N$371 million in outstanding vehicle license fee arrears, accumulated over the past 15 years. The move is aimed at easing financial pressure on drivers while encouraging greater compliance in the future. RFA spokesperson and Executive for Strategic Services Patricia Keeja, breaks down what this decision means for motorists, government revenue and the sustainability of road funding in Namibia. Keeja shared these insights in a conversation with Jane Kandetu on Desert FM.

Woman still waiting payout from health ministry

The High Court recently ordered the Ministry of Health and Social Services to compensate Malensia Mukuua from Coblenz with N$2 million after a tragic case at Grootfontein State Hospital, where her unborn baby was left in her womb for three days before being removed. More than six months after the ruling, she is still waiting for her compensation. Malensia speaks to Desert FM on her story.

Tribalism rock Mariental recruitment of nurses

Allegations of tribalism rocked a recruitment process for nurses at Mariental. Landless People’s Movement lawmaker Utaara Mootu says interview papers were leaked to some candidates, giving them an unfair advantage. Desert FM speaks to Mootu to unpack the developments.

Pink October for breast cancer

Pink October for breast cancer October is globally recognised as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time usually dedicated to raising awareness, promoting screening and supporting those affected by the disease. To talk to us about what work being done on the ground in Namibia, Desert FM speaks with CEO of the Cancer Association, Rolf Hansen.

Only 22% of Namibians Confident in Retirement Savings, Says Study

Financial expert Tangi Malakia told Desert FM that low incomes, high living costs, and poor financial literacy are leaving many Namibians unprepared for retirement. He urged young people to “start small, but start now,” adding that saving should be seen as freedom, not fear.

Gender Gaps in Youth Funding: LPM Youth Leader Calls for Greater Support for Young Women

As the National Youth Development Fund rolls out, concerns remain about whether young women benefit equally. LPM Youth Command leader Dominga Ndala told Desert FM that structural barriers from financial literacy and access to land, to mentorship and patriarchal norms, still hinder female entrepreneurs, especially in rural areas. She urged the government to conduct gender audits, create performance indicators, and strengthen mentorship to ensure women fully access and benefit from youth development opportunities.

Over 1,300 Pupils Affected as Ndama Junior Primary Faces Water and Sanitation Crisis in Rundu

One of Rundu’s largest schools, Ndama Junior Primary, was forced to suspend classes for more than 1,300 learners due to weeks without water and unusable toilets. Action Democratic Movement leader Vincent Kanyutu told Desert FM the crisis reflects poor planning, procurement delays, and weak infrastructure investment, calling it a shame 35 years after independence.

NUST Research Week 2025: A Decade of Eminence in Innovation and Industry Partnerships

Institutional Research Week kicks off One of the biggest academic events of the year — the Institutional Research Week 2025, kicked off today under the theme ‘A Decade of Eminence: Strengthening and Repositioning Research for Industry Partnerships and Engagement.' hosted by the Namibia University of Science and Technology. ' Desert FM was joined in conversation by the Executive Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships at NUST. "Dr Anna Matros-Goreses

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