Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Namibia’s green hydrogen future without Mnyupe

Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Programme faces fresh uncertainty, with reports of its head, James Mnyupe, resigning over a lack of political will and internal interference circulating. Desert FM speaks to public policy analyst Graham Hopwood about what Mnyupe’s departure means for the project and Namibia’s investment outlook.

Wave of recognition of Palestinian state

Over the past few days, several major Western countries formally recognised a Palestinian state. Among them are Canada, France, Australia, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and Monaco. Desert FM speaks to researcher and political analyst Osama Alhila to unpack what this means for Palestinians.

Amendments to Public Procurement Act spark debate

Proposed amendments to the Public Procurement Act have raised eyebrows as the draft bill seeks to give the finance minister sweeping powers to decide how the government can buy medicine directly from manufacturers or exclusive distributors, bypassing the usual competitive bidding process. To discuss these concerns, Desert FM chats with Rally for Democracy and Progress president Mike Kavekotora.

Namibia preparing to unify investment framework

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah recently announced that the government is reviewing the country’s investment law. The aim is to replace fragmented regulations with a single framework that caters to both local and foreign investors. To understand more, Desert FM speaks to investment expert Francois van Schalkwyk.

Agribank CEO to run for Otjinene constituency

With the regional council and local authority elections approaching, parties are being accused of recycling councillors and activists are being asked why they’re venturing into politics.Others, on the other hand, are being pulled from different spaces, including corporate Namibia. One of them is Raphael Karuaihe, chief executive of theAgricultural Bank of Namibia, who is running for councillor for the Otjinene constituency. He spoke to Desert FM on why he ventured into politics.

Impact of High sentences for Rapist on future Offenders

A landmark case that has sent shockwaves across Namibia. The Windhoek High Court has handed down a 57-year sentence to a convicted rapist, delivering one of the heaviest punishments of its kind in recent years.The case has reignited conversations around gender-based violence, justice for survivors, and the urgent need to protect vulnerable members of our society. We’ll unpack the details of the ruling, hear what it means for victims’ rights, and explore whether such sentences can act as a deterrent to future offenders. We were joined by Legal Practitioner Mr Wessile Chikwililwa to unpack whether long term prison sentences can serve as a deterrent for future offenders

Livestock sector focuses on herd reproduction amid marketing decline

We shift our focus to Namibia’s livestock sector, which is currently navigating serious challenges. According to the latest agricultural outlook, the marketing of cattle and small stock dropped sharply this year as farmers prioritise rebuilding their herds. At the same time, bush encroachment is threatening grazing capacity, raising questions about long-term sustainability and food security. Desert FM spoke to farming expert Juso Ekandjo about the realities on the ground – from herd repopulation and export markets to what farmers need most during this rebuilding phase.

Namibia’s snail farm prepares for first export as N$140-million project takes shape

We are having a look at a unique development in Namibia’s agricultural and export industry. Just outside Swakopmund, the country’s first-ever climate-controlled snail farm, NamSnails is preparing for its first shipment of live snails to South Africa. This isn’t just about exports – it’s about building a brand new industry with an investment value of N$140 million, positioning Namibia as a leader in snail farming on the African continent. To tell us more about this ambitious project, its opportunities, challenges, and future prospects, NamSnails chief executive André Mouton joined Jane Kandetu.

Ombu Heritage Festival

And now for some heritage and culture: The Ovaherero people recently gathered in the Otjozondjupa region for the Ombu Heritage Festival – a vibrant celebration of tradition, history, and identity. The festival, now in its second edition, provides a platform to showcase cultural skills, arts, and practices that risk being forgotten. From a living museum village that takes you back 150 years to exhibitions of indigenous knowledge and heritage, the festival has become a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our roots for future generations. To tell us more about the significance of this cultural gathering and its vision, Ombu Heritage Festival founder Vetumbuavi Mungunda joined Desert FM.

Namibia’s biggest banks making record-breaking profits

Standard Bank Namibia recently announced a profit of just over N$1 billion, First National Bank earned N$1.7 billion, and Capricorn Group, the parent of Bank Windhoek, brought in nearly N$2 billion for the year. To unpack what this means for the Namibian economy, Desert FM speaks to economist Helena Mboti.

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